Riyadh,
Riyadh Province,
Saudi Arabia
The first reported a botulism outbreak for Saudi Arabia, has been traced to a popular local restaurant chain in Riyadh. The outbreak, caused by consuming contaminated mayonnaise, has affected 19 people so far. This marks the first reported instance of botulism in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
The outbreak was identified after 19 patients were admitted to Riyadh First Health Cluster Hospitals with symptoms of foodborne illness. Following thorough physical examinations, botulism was suspected in each case. Of these, eight patients fully met the botulism case definition requirements set by the Saudi Arabian Public Health Authority (Weqaya). The patients ranged in age from 12 to 38 years, with a mean age of 23.25 years. Symptoms included difficulty swallowing, slurred speech, generalized weakness, nausea, vomiting, double vision, and stomach discomfort. Six of the eight confirmed cases required intubation.
In case you experience Botulism symptoms such as diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, and stomach pain, report it now. It can help to detect & resolve outbreaks early and prevent others from being harmed, and it enables better surveillance. If symptoms persist, seek medical care.
Source:
pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38837035/
