Brazilian Exchange Worker Hospitalized with Rare Case of Botulism

Botulism, often associated with improperly preserved or canned foods, poses a serious health threat due to the neurotoxins produced by the bacteria.  Symptoms of botulism can range from mild muscle weakness and blurred vision to paralysis and respiratory failure, making early detection and treatment critical for a positive outcome.

On February 17, the exchange worker, Claudia de Albuquerque Celada was first admitted to an Aspen, Colorado hospital "with symptoms of paralysis, dizziness, double-vision, and shortness of breath…"  Soon after, Albuquerque Celada was airlifted to a larger hospital in Denver, Colorado where she was eventually diagnosed with botulism, 15 days after symptoms began.  The origin of her infection and the specific food she consumed remain unknown.

The decision was made for Albuquerque Celada to return to Brazil by air ambulance to be closer to family.  Although the Denver hospital is paying for the flight, the family is trying to raise funds to cover the long hospital stay.

The story is reminiscent of a case in 2021 when another Brazilian woman became temporarily paralyzed after eating expired pesto. Doralice Carneiro Sobreira Goes purchased the homemade pesto from a local market but didn't open and eat it until a month later.  Although she described it as "delicious," Goes soon began to feel extremely ill.  Shortly after driving herself to the hospital, Goes could barely breathe and was "nearly entirely paralyzed, only able to move two toes."  She was eventually diagnosed with botulism and stayed at the hospital for a year, where she slowly began to recover.

Both cases serve as a stark reminder of the need for vigilance and diligence in all aspects of food production and consumption.  This includes understanding the principles of safe food preservation, recognizing the signs and symptoms of foodborne illnesses like botulism, and knowing when to seek medical attention if illness occurs.  

According to one national food safety attorney, "While incidents of botulism are rare, they serve as a sobering reminder of the potential consequences of complacency when it comes to food safety.  Consumers, food producers, and policymakers must continue to prioritize food safety as a public health concern."