I received a call from a mom I worked with months ago who is also a RN CLE. Her 6 mo old daughter is now on a respirator in a pedi icu unit with botulism toxins raging in her system. She has been on the respirator for 9 days now. The signs and symptoms came on over the course of 1 day. Interestingly, the MD treating this baby in the unit told her that it's a good thing she was nursing as the cases he has seen with bf babies appear to have a slower course as compared to the abm fed babies who appeared to have quicker s/s and look like a SIDS when on autopsy, have found to have botulism. Apparently this is Type A botulism which is airborne. Perhaps released in the earth when earthquakes occur and stir things up. (This is all so new to me, I knew of the honey connection only.) The mother is optomistic as the MD's expect a full recovery as soon as the toxims leave her body. Since hospitalization, this mom was pumping every 4 hours during the day and sleeping a 8-9 hr. stretch at nite. She is noticing a decrease in her production. The baby may be on the resp. for 4 to 6 weeks.I have suggested she increase her pumping to every 2 to 3 during the day with a 5 hr stretch of sleep at nite. She is receptive to the increase in freq. as an attempt to keep her supply up. I am receptive and greatful for any suggestions or words of wisdom you may be able to share with me that I may be able to pass on to her. She does not have a computer so I told her I would post. And as Becky said, I also think it's quite special to talk with 800 of you!!! Thanks! Elisa Hirsch, RN,IBCLC Westlake VIllage, CA