By NewsDesk  @bactiman63

Health officials in Kyrgyzstan are reporting 28 foodborne botulism cases through Oct. 2020, prompting a warning for the public.

Of the 28 cases, 19 were reported in the Osh region.

Kyrgyzstan/CIA

In most cases, botulism begins acutely. It can manifest itself in people who ate canned salads or cucumbers, mushrooms, eggplants, other vegetables and meat products the day before.

The Ministry of Health says prevention of botulism includes:

  • strict adherence to sanitary and technological rules for preserving food;
  • using only fresh fruits and vegetables;
  • thorough washing of vegetables and fruits from soil particles;
  • storage of canned food in cold conditions;
  • destruction of bloated canned food.

You should not buy home and industrial canned food on spontaneous markets and “off hand”, and when buying ready-made canned food, you should definitely check the expiration date and pay attention to the appearance of the can.

Botulism is a potentially fatal form of food poisoning, can cause the following symptoms: general weakness, dizziness, double vision, and trouble with speaking or swallowing. Difficulty in breathing, weakness of other muscles, abdominal distension and constipation may also be common symptoms. People experiencing these problems should seek immediate medical attention.