Two Premature Infants Die from Infection Linked to Contaminated Soap

Two premature infants tragically died at San Maurizo Hospital in Bolzano, Italy, after contracting a severe infection linked to contaminated washing up liquid. The fatalities occurred within hours of each other on August 12 and August 13, 2023, raising alarms about the risks associated with antibiotic-resistant bacteria in hospital environments.

The infants, born just three weeks prior, weighed less than two pounds at the time of their passing. One baby was delivered during the 23rd week of gestation, while the other was born at 27 weeks. Both developed sepsis, a life-threatening complication, as a result of the infection caused by the bacterium Serratia marcescens, which is known for its prevalence in medical facilities.

Hospital director Pierpaolo Bertoli confirmed the unfortunate outcome in a statement last Thursday. He emphasized the hospital’s commitment to hygiene protocols, stating, “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.”

Investigation and Preventive Measures Underway

An investigation is currently underway to determine the source of the contamination. It is suspected that the infection may be linked to industrial dish soap used at the hospital. As a precaution, all soap utilized in the facility has been recalled. In light of the situation, the hospital has temporarily ceased admitting high-risk premature infants, transferring existing patients nearly 40 miles away to ensure their safety.

Professor Brendan Wren, from the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, described Serratia marcescens as an “opportunistic” pathogen that poses a particular risk to vulnerable populations such as premature infants. He noted, “This bacterium is frequently found in water and can persist in hospitals. They are increasingly multi-antibiotic resistant and can survive in diverse environments including dishwashing soap.”

The presence of such bacteria is not uncommon in neonatal intensive care units, where the immature immune systems of newborns make them especially susceptible to infections.

Broader Health Concerns and Recent Incidents

This incident is not isolated, as it comes on the heels of another concerning health issue in Italy. A woman, Valeria Sollai, became the second suspected victim of contaminated guacamole at a food festival in Sardinia. The 62-year-old passed away at the Monserrato Policlinico Hospital in Cagliari on August 14, believed to have consumed the same guacamole that is suspected to have caused the death of 38-year-old Roberta Pitzalis on August 8. Several others have required hospital treatment, including two children who remain hospitalized.

As investigations continue into both the soap contamination and the foodborne illness, health officials are urging vigilance in adhering to hygiene practices, especially in settings where vulnerable populations are present. The tragic deaths of the two infants serve as a stark reminder of the potential dangers associated with hospital-acquired infections and the importance of rigorous infection control measures.