A mother and her 15-year-old daughter have tragically passed away after reportedly consuming a tainted Christmas meal. The duo is said to have succumbed to acute liver failure shortly after sharing a festive dinner. Antonella Di Ielsi, aged 50, and 15-year-old Sara Di Vita are believed to have ingested fish, mussels, and mushrooms during the holiday feast.
Authorities suspect that they developed fulminant hepatitis, a severe form of liver failure, due to food poisoning. Following the meal in Pietracatella, Italy, both the mother and daughter began experiencing symptoms like nausea and abdominal pain.
Sara was taken to the emergency room twice before being discharged. However, her condition deteriorated, leading to her passing at Cardarelli Hospital on Saturday night at 11 pm. Subsequently, Antonella was hospitalized after exhibiting similar symptoms.
Vincenzo Cuzzone from Cardarelli Hospital mentioned that Sara arrived with general symptoms, but the rapid progression of the illness prompted Antonella’s admission as a precaution. The family patriarch, Ganni Di Vita, also showed symptoms and was hospitalized in Rome. Their 18-year-old daughter, who did not dine with them that evening, is closely monitored.
Authorities collected food samples from the residence for analysis to determine the source of the poisoning. An investigation has been launched by the public prosecutor’s office, including post-mortem examinations.
The tragic incident has left the community in shock, with the village mayor expressing deep sorrow and condolences. Following the deaths, a vigil was held, and Christmas celebrations were canceled. Five doctors from Cardarelli Hospital are under investigation for possible manslaughter.
Prosecutor Nicola D’Angelo stated that the inquiry aims to uncover negligence, identify the cause of the poisoning, and prevent similar tragedies from occurring.