Ukraine has started a botulism epidemic, said the head of the Main Department of the State Service of Ukraine in Kyiv Oleg Ruban.

According to him, it is necessary to buy canned products only in stores, as this product has undergone thermal processing and has safety indicators. 

"Now there is a botulism epidemic in Ukraine. Many people cook and sell canned products themselves in the markets. You should buy only at official points of sale, where such products have passed the appropriate heat treatment mode and have safety indicators," - he stressed.

The official advised consumers in case of doubt about the origin of products or preparation to contact the hotline of the government, the KGSA or the State Committee of Ukraine on Population and Consumer Services.

Among the primary symptoms of botulism: thirst, dry mucous membranes, a feeling of "lump" in the throat. Subsequently, severe headache, dizziness, insomnia, increased body temperature is added. The key to success is to see a doctor in time.