Submit a Specimen for Testing

What to know

  • Diagnostic testing for suspected botulism varies by state.
  • Contact your state health department or the CDC Clinical Botulism Service (available 24/7 at 770-488-7100) for guidance on submitting clinical specimens for testing.
Collection tube with a red cap

Submit a Specimen to CDC for Testing

CDC offers laboratory confirmation of botulism by testing human specimens and foods.

CDC accepts specimens for analysis from state public health laboratories and other federal agencies. Private healthcare providers and institutions may submit specimens directly to CDC with authorization from their state public health department.

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Content Source:
National Center for Emerging and Zoonotic Infectious Diseases (NCEZID)