Babies die from infection linked to contaminated dish soap at Italian hospital

Two infants being treated at the same hospitaldied just hours apart after contracting an infection linked to contaminated washing up liquid.

The babies, who were both premature, tragically passed away at the San Maurizio Hospital in Italy. The tiny babies had earlier been diagnosed with an infection caused by Serratia marcescens, a bacteria that causes infections such as UTIs and pneumonia. It is known to easily spread in hospitals. In this case, they both developed sepsis.

The little patients, who were born three weeks ago, weighed less than two pounds each at the time of their deaths. One of them was born on the 23rd week of gestation, while the other was welcomed on the 27th. They sadly passed away on August 12 and August 13.

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Their infection is suspected to be linked to the industrial dish soap which is used at the hospital in Bolzano. Josef Widmann, the medical director of the South Tyrolean Health Authority, confirmed there was concerns surrounding the soap.

Hospital director Pierpaolo Bertoli commented: “The presence of this bacterium is not unique because it constantly poses a risk to neonatal intensive care units. This is not so much because of the type of germ but because of the particular vulnerability of these little patients due to their immature immune systems.”

The hospital is no longer welcoming high-risk premature babies at this time, reports New York Post. Any premature babies who were already at the hospital have been transferred.

Zaebisch continued: "At the Bolzano hospital, we have implemented all preventive measures to prevent the transmission of germs. The ward staff strictly adheres to hygiene measures. Unfortunately, these two cases could not be prevented."

A police investigation is underway.

Symptoms and signs of Serratia marcescens

• Fever
• Fatigue
• Chills
• Shortness of breath
• Cough with mucus
• Eye irritation
• Stuggle with urinating
• Headache
• Stiff neck
• Light sensitivity

How to look out for Sepsis in babies

• Blue, grey or pale skin
• Difficulty breathing
• A rash which doesn't fade
• High-pitched cry
• Lack of interest in feeding or normal activities