Three People Affected by Botulism in Armavir Region Due to Tomato Marinade

On January 11, a case of botulism was registered in the community of Armavir in the Armavir region, affecting three individuals, as reported by the Ministry of Health.

According to an epidemiological investigation, the source of the poisoning was identified as homemade canned tomato marinade. Currently, the patients are receiving treatment in medical centers in Yerevan, and their condition is assessed as moderate.

The Ministry of Health reminds that food contaminated with botulism may not alter its taste, smell, color, or appearance.

Symptoms of the disease include general weakness, nausea, vomiting, dizziness, headache, abdominal pain, shortness of breath, and visual disturbances (blurred vision, double vision), changes in voice (hoarseness, strangled voice), dry mouth, and swallowing difficulties. Symptoms can appear within 2-3 hours to 10 days.

To avoid botulism, the Ministry of Health once again urges the public to:

• Avoid consuming homemade canned products.
• Subject homemade canned goods to thermal processing by boiling the contents for 20-25 minutes before consumption.
• Not purchase homemade canned goods from markets or random individuals.
• Immediately seek medical attention upon the first appearance of symptoms.

Botulism is a severe food poisoning caused by the bacterium Clostridium botulinum. The pathogen exists in the environment as spores in the soil, which can transfer onto vegetables and fruits. Anaerobic conditions are necessary for the growth and development of this pathogen, during which it multiplies and produces toxins. Such conditions can occur in hermetically sealed jars.

The destruction of the pathogen occurs only in special devices, such as autoclaves, under high pressure (1.5-2 atmospheres) and at temperatures of 120-130°C, which are available only in food processing plants and cannot be achieved in home conditions.