C. tetani releases an exotoxin causing tetanus and lock jaw.

What does botulism do to a person?

Botulism (“BOT-choo-liz-um”) is a rare but serious illness caused by a toxin that attacks the body's nerves and causes difficulty breathing, muscle paralysis, and even death. This toxin is made by Clostridium botulinum and sometimes Clostridium butyricum and Clostridium baratii bacteria.

What is the difference between botulism and tetanus?

Both diseases are rare in the UK and the developed world but tetanus in particular is a major cause of death in the developing world causing between 200,000 and 300,000 deaths each year. In botulism a descending flaccid paralysis occurs whereas in tetanus generalized muscle spasms develop.