<P> Botulism can be spread in several different ways . The bacterial spores which cause it are common in both soil and water . They produce the botulinum toxin when exposed to low oxygen levels and certain temperatures . Foodborne botulism happens when food containing the toxin is eaten . Infant botulism happens when the bacteria develops in the intestines and releases the toxin . This typically only occurs in children less than six months old , as protective mechanisms develop after that time . Wound botulism is found most often among those who inject street drugs . In this situation , spores enter a wound , and in the absence of oxygen , release the toxin . It is not passed directly between people . The diagnosis is confirmed by finding the toxin or bacteria in the person in question . </P>
<P> Botulism can be spread in several different ways . The bacterial spores which cause it are common in both soil and water . They produce the botulinum toxin when exposed to low oxygen levels and certain temperatures . Foodborne botulism happens when food containing the toxin is eaten . Infant botulism happens when the bacteria develops in the intestines and releases the toxin . This typically only occurs in children less than six months old , as protective mechanisms develop after that time . Wound botulism is found most often among those who inject street drugs . In this situation , spores enter a wound , and in the absence of oxygen , release the toxin . It is not passed directly between people . The diagnosis is confirmed by finding the toxin or bacteria in the person in question . </P>
where is the bacteria that causes botulism often present
where is the bacteria that causes botulism often present
soil and water
soil and water