Health Protocols Activated Following Botulism Outbreaks in Sardinia and Calabria

Sardinia: The health ministry announced the activation of emergency health protocols in response to two deadly outbreaks of botulism in the regions of Sardinia and Calabria. This swift action was taken after the outbreaks resulted in fatalities and numerous cases of severe food poisoning.

According to Ansa News Agency, a 38-year-old woman passed away in a hospital in Cagliari after suffering from severe food poisoning symptoms. She was among eight individuals who fell ill after consuming guacamole sauce at a festival in Sardinia last month.

In Calabria, prosecutors have launched an investigation and ordered the nationwide seizure of a suspect product, reportedly broccoli-based, believed to be linked to an outbreak in the Cosenza area. This incident led to the death of Luigi di Sarno, a 52-year-old tourist.

The Ministry of Health’s Department of Prevention, Research and Health Emergencies stated, “Following two major clusters of botulinum intoxication that occurred in recent weeks in Sardinia and Calabria, the Department immediately activated all the health protocols.” The ministry emphasized that the intervention system allowed for timely access to life-saving antidote treatments for affected patients.