Italy’s health ministry said Friday it swiftly activated emergency protocols after two fatal botulism outbreaks in Sardinia and Calabria.
A 38-year-old woman died in a Cagliari hospital after suffering severe food poisoning last month. She was one of eight people who fell ill after eating guacamole sauce at a festival.
In Calabria, prosecutors have launched an investigation into a suspected broccoli-based product linked to a botulism outbreak in the Cosenza area. One victim, 52-year-old tourist Luigi di Sarno, died after consuming the item. The product has been seized nationwide.
“Following two major clusters of botulinum intoxication that occurred in recent weeks in Sardinia and Calabria, the Department of Prevention, Research and Health Emergencies of the Ministry of Health immediately activated all the health protocols,” the ministry said.
Officials said the system ensured patients received rapid access to life-saving antidote treatments.
Italy is also dealing with fatal outbreaks of West Nile virus.
