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Preventing Botulism in Alaskan Native Communities

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Alaska has more cases of botulism than any other state in America, and the number of cases is increasing each year. In Alaskan Native communities, the most common cause of this extremely serious—and often deadly—form of food poisoning is eating traditional Native fermented foods, such as “stinky heads” (fermented fish heads), beaver tail and seal flipper.

Ironically, a major reason for this botulism epidemic is the growing use of “modern” methods of preparing fermented foods—such as placing the food in glass or plastic containers with tight-fitting lids—rather than traditional Native methods, like putting the food in a grass-lined hole in the ground. The latter approach is safer because it allows air to circulate and lets the food ferment at a colder temperature, minimizing the opportunity for botulism germs to grow.

To help Alaska Native families learn to recognize, prevent and seek appropriate treatment for botulism poisoning, the CDC’s Arctic Investigations Program, in partnership with the Bristol Bay Area Health Corporation and the Alaska Division of Public Health, has created a culturally sensitive patient education program, “A Helping Hand: Keeping Your Family Safe from Botulism.” Educational materials available to nurses include a patient brochure, a 30-minute video and a Web site (www.phppo.cdc.gov/phtn/botulism/default/default.asp).

Using easy-to-understand language and helpful visuals, the “Helping Hand” materials provide information about the causes and symptoms of botulism, who can get it, how to prevent it and what treatment options are available. They also address common misconceptions about the disease and provide tips for safe food preparation.

The video, which includes interviews with botulism survivors and health professionals, does a particularly good job of celebrating the Alaska Native heritage by incorporating traditional music, artwork and cultural beliefs, such as the importance of learning from elders and protecting future generations. It is available in both English-language and Yup’ik versions.

For more information, or to receive copies of the program materials, contact the Arctic Investigations Program at (907) 729-3400 or ncidaip@cdc.gov.