TYPE OF TEST

Detection of Clostridium botulinum toxin associated with food samples will be referred to CDC in Atlanta. 

SPECIMEN REQUIREMENTS

15 ml serum, 10-20 gm feces, and suspect food leftovers if available.    

SHIPPING REQUIREMENTS

Notify WPHL of the suspected botulism case immediately.  Collection and submission protocol is available on the Microbiology Collection Protocols web page on this web site. A CDC 50:34 form must accompany the specimen.  Ship by overnight delivery on cold packs, not dry ice.  Ship directly from the submitter to

                              STAT  (Attn: Botulism Lab)

                              Centers for Disease Control & Prevention

                              1600 Clifton Road NE

                              Atlanta, GA  30329

DAYS TEST PERFORMED

The samples will be processed with immediate urgency due to the nature of the toxin. 

RESULTS AVAILABLE

Upon completion of testing, CDC will notify WPHL of results.

REPORTING & INTERPRETATION

Antitoxin is available through CDC Epidemiology and will be sent if there is a confirmed case of adult botulism.  BabyBIG is a product licensed to treat type A & B infant botulism cases and is only available through the California Department of Public Health, Infant Botulism Treatment and Prevention Program (IBTPP).  Clinicians with a suspect case should contact IBTPP at 510.231.7600.

ADDITIONAL COMMENTS

In the event of a suspected case of adult or infant botulism, notify the Wyoming Epidemiology Section immediately.

Wyoming Department of Health - 888-996-9104 (24/7 hotline)