Analysis of the epidemiological characteristics of foodborne botulism in Xinjiang, China from 2016 to 2024

This study systematically analyzes the epidemiological characteristics of foodborne botulism in Xinjiang from 2016 to 2024. Data were collected from reports across Xinjiang, with all events confirmed through epidemiological investigation, laboratory testing, and food hygiene surveys. Descriptive statistical analysis was performed using R Studio (version 4.3.1). A total of 79 foodborne botulism events (including outbreaks and sporadic cases) were reported, including 52 laboratory-confirmed and 27 clinically diagnosed events, involving 103 confirmed cases and 228 exposed individuals. The attack rate was 45.2%, with a case-fatality rate of 1.94%. Homemade foods were the primary risk factor, particularly among middle-aged and elderly populations. Type A botulinum neurotoxin (BoNT) was dominant. Most events occurred in January and May, with the highest number of cases in Urumqi City and Ili Prefecture. The study reveals a unique etiological pattern in Xinjiang, characterized by the absolute dominance of a specific toxin serotype. While traditional homemade foods remain the major risk, emerging threats from commercially distributed foods are becoming significant, underscoring the need for continuously strengthened risk response capabilities.