A tragic incident in southwest Italy has resulted in the deaths of two individuals and the hospitalization of 14 others after consuming contaminated sausage and turnip top paninis from a food truck. The victims, identified as Luigi di Sarno, aged 52, and Tamara D’Acunto, aged 45, succumbed within days of eating the tainted sandwiches. The outbreak is linked to the country’s second case of toxic botulism within a month, raising significant health concerns across the region.
All of the affected individuals purchased sandwiches from a food truck located near the town of Diamante in Calabria. According to authorities, each victim had ordered the same meal: a panini featuring grilled sausage and cime di rapa, commonly known as turnip tops. Reports indicate that Di Sarno was discharged from the hospital despite expressing ongoing health issues, a situation highlighted by his sister.
Investigation Underway and Health Protocols Activated
The food truck, owned by Giuseppe Santonocito, aged 33, has been seized as part of the investigation into the outbreak. Both Santonocito and his three employees, who allegedly prepared the contaminated paninis, are currently under scrutiny. Officials have also mandated a nationwide seizure of the panini, which was commercially produced, while investigating other items sold at the establishment.
Santonocito reportedly sourced the produce used in the sandwiches in late July, claiming he only had enough ingredients for “six or seven” sandwiches before running out. His lawyer stated, “He is psychologically devastated. He has worked for around nine years in the food sector and is well respected. He is convinced that the contamination was already in the products that he served.”
In a concerning development, five doctors who treated the victims at two different hospitals are also being investigated for potentially failing to diagnose the cases of botulism in a timely manner. This aspect of the investigation reflects the gravity of the situation and the need for prompt medical responses in similar cases.
Understanding Botulism and Previous Outbreaks
Botulism, a serious bacterial infection commonly associated with food poisoning, can lead to severe complications such as muscle paralysis and death, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The recent outbreak in Calabria follows another incident in late July on the island of Sardinia, where a woman died after consuming spoiled guacamole at a festival, with seven others, including an 11-year-old boy, treated for food poisoning.
In light of these dual outbreaks, Italy’s Ministry of Health has activated all necessary health protocols to ensure that affected individuals receive timely access to life-saving antidote treatments. This response underscores the government’s commitment to public health and safety in the wake of such alarming events.
As investigations continue, authorities are determined to prevent further incidents and safeguard the health of the community.
