Infant Botulism Outbreak Testing Handled by Minnesota Public Health Laboratory

February 14, 2026 - 18:12

Public health officials across the United States mobilized in response to a concerning national outbreak of infant botulism during the final months of 2025. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention confirmed a multi-state surge in cases of the rare but serious illness.

Infant botulism occurs when babies ingest bacterial spores, which then grow in the intestines and release a toxin. This can lead to severe symptoms, including muscle weakness, difficulty feeding, a weak cry, and lethargy. Very young infants, typically those under six months of age, are most susceptible.

The investigation into the source of the outbreak is ongoing. A specialized public health laboratory has been central to the national response, performing critical testing of clinical samples from affected infants to confirm the diagnosis. This testing is essential for guiding patient treatment and understanding the scope of the outbreak.

Health authorities are reminding caregivers that honey is a known source of the bacterial spores and should not be given to children under one year old. Parents and guardians are urged to seek immediate medical attention if an infant shows signs of muscle weakness, poor feeding, or appears unusually floppy and lethargic. Prompt diagnosis and treatment with an antitoxin are vital for recovery.