Pesto laced with brain-infecting bug leaves five people fighting for their lives in intensive care

FIVE people are in critical condition in a Paris hospital after eating pesto suspected to be contaminated with botulism.

They had all eaten wild garlic pesto from O’Ptits Oignons, a French artisanal brand.

www.francebleu.fr

Local authorities are racing to locate 600 pots of the same posh sauce before anyone else eats it, according to the Indre-et-Loire health department, just southwest of Paris .

Two couples were rushed to the hospital on Saturday, followed by a fifth person on Sunday, all after attending the same birthday dinner.

They’re now receiving emergency treatment at the hospital’s intensive care department.

They’re on life support machines to help them breathe, but they’re still conscious, prefect Patrice Latron shared with local news.

Botulism is a rare but serious illness caused by a toxin called Clostridium botulinum that affects the nervous system.

It can attack the nervous system causing breathing issues , and muscle paralysis , and, in about 10 per cent of cases, it can be deadly.

The most common way to get botulism is by eating food contaminated with the toxin, usually due to improper processing

Based on the information so far, the prefect confirmed that a locally-produced pesto sauce called ‘O P’tits Oignons was the source of the infections.

The sauce was sold at local festivals in Indre-et-Loire, with the first at the end of March 2024 and the latest in September.

“People who bought the same sauce must throw it out, destroy it,” the prefect said.

In September 2023, during the Rugby World Cup, f oodborne botulism affected 16 people in Bordeaux .

Patients consumed locally produced canned sardines at Tchin Tchin Wine Bar restaurant.

Getty

Botulism: Everything you need to know

What Is It?

Botulism is a rare but serious illness caused by a toxin produced by the bacterium Clostridium botulinum .

It affects the nervous system, leading to muscle paralysis and breathing difficulties.

How is it contracted?

The illness usually comes from eating food contaminated with the toxin. This often happens due to improper food processing, such as inadequate canning.

Symptoms to watch for:

• Muscle weakness
• Difficulty breathing
• Double vision
• Difficulty swallowing

How serious is it?

Botulism can be life-threatening. In severe cases, it can cause death, with around 10 per cent of cases being fatal if not treated promptly.

Treatment:

If you think you are suffering from botulism poisoning, medical attention is crucial.

Treatment typically involves antitoxins and supportive care, including breathing assistance if necessary.

Prevention:

Ensure proper food processing and handling. Avoid consuming home-canned foods if you’re unsure about their safety.