Botulism
(noun)
A serious and potentially fatal illness caused by the bacteria Clostridium botulinum, characterized by muscle paralysis and difficulty breathing.
Origin:
From latin botulus "sausage" + -ism.
Examples:
- Botulism is a serious illness that can be caused by eating contaminated food.
- The symptoms of botulism include muscle weakness, double vision, and difficulty swallowing.
- Botulism can be treated with an antitoxin, but it must be given as soon as possible after symptoms appear.
- The most common source of botulism is improperly canned foods.
- Botulism is a serious food poisoning that can cause death.