Botulism in water birds
Goulden, S.
Veterinary Record 137(13): 328
1995
ISSN/ISBN: 0042-4900 PMID: 8571512 Document Number: 449785
A very high incidence of avian botulism C with several hundred deaths among water birds such as the mute swan, Canada goose, tufted duck, grebe, moorhen and seagull occurred in the south of England due to the hot dry summer. For affected birds paralysed by the botulinum toxin, a high level of intensive support therapy including antibiotic therapy and vitamin B12 injections has been found to be successful although recovery may take several weeks. Intravenous fluids and vitamins can be given to the larger species. A cool quiet environment is required for affected birds. Carcasses at the site of an outbreak should be cleared as maggots feeding on them concentrate the toxin and are a further source of intoxication.