Authorities in Russia have taken action following a suspected botulism outbreak that has resulted in dozens of hospitalizations across four regions. The outbreak has been linked to ready-to-eat salads produced by a popular delivery service.
The Investigative Committee of Russia has detained two top managers of the delivery service and the head of a company that produces canned beans as part of a criminal inquiry. The individuals are being investigated on charges related to the production and distribution of products that violate safety standards.
Botulism is a rare illness caused by a toxin produced by the bacterium Clostridium botulinum. Consumption of contaminated foods can lead to symptoms such as paralysis, breathing difficulties, and in severe cases, death. Improperly canned, preserved, or fermented foods are common sources of the toxin.
Symptoms of botulism include severe abdominal pain, vomiting, diarrhea, blurred vision, dry mouth, difficulty swallowing or speaking, and neurological issues.
In Moscow, 121 individuals have sought medical assistance for suspected botulism, with 55 in serious condition and 30 in intensive care. Similar cases have been reported in the Moscow region, Nizhny Novgorod region, and Kazan.
Health officials have identified ready-made salads as a potential source of contamination and have halted the sale of certain products pending investigation. The delivery service implicated in the outbreak has suspended operations and is cooperating with authorities.
A criminal investigation is ongoing, and individuals associated with the production and distribution of the implicated products have been arrested. While the exact source of contamination has not been confirmed, authorities are taking swift action to address the outbreak and prevent further cases of botulism.
