Tetanus differs from botulism in that _______.

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Tetanus, caused by the bacterium Clostridium tetani, leads to rigid paralysis because the toxin prevents the release of neurotransmitters that inhibit muscle contraction, resulting in muscles that cannot relax. Botulism, caused by Clostridium botulinum, results in flaccid paralysis because the toxin prevents the release of neurotransmitters necessary for muscle contraction, leading to muscles that cannot contract.

Tetanus Differs from Botulism in That _______