RIYADH: More than half of the patients who contracted food poisoning caused by the clostridium botulinum bacteria last Thursday were released from intensive care and 25 discharged from a local hospital, the Ministry of Health reported on X. The ministry’s spokesperson Dr. Mohammed Khalid Alabdulaali confirmed that the only source of the contaminated food was from the local Hamburgini fast-food restaurant chain. “We confirm that there are no other sources to which the cases were linked other than what was previously explained, and we recommend the importance of taking information from official sources and the necessity of avoiding spreading rumors and unconfirmed information,” he said. Botulism, caused by the bacteria, is a life-threatening neurological disorder resulting in paralysis and death if not treated promptly. Gastroenterologist Mohammed Al-Awamy told Arab News that botulism is caused by the ingestion of contaminated food. “In situations where the anaerobic bacteria thrive, for example in situations where oxygen is minimal ... this is seen in canned goods and in meats that have been packed in vacuum-sealed packing. He said that botulism can be avoided by making sure that sources of contamination are eliminated. “This would mean tracing any source of possible contaminated food and ensuring the safe storage and processing of food products.” He said botulism is life-threatening. “Symptoms start in the face and then descend to involve the limbs and trunk. Respiratory failure ensues due to involvement of the respiratory system leading to cardiopulmonary collapse.” He said anyone who has symptoms or is suspected of having botulism must seek urgent medical attention. “Treatment is supportive but may require the utilization of advanced life-support measures. Anti-toxin is available and will be administered in suspected cases pending confirmatory tests. ICU admission and mechanical ventilation may be needed in more advanced cases.”