Shockwaves in Italy: Girl's tragic passing ignites allergy debate
A 9-year-old girl, Martina F., tragically passed away after eating gnocchi at a restaurant in Rome due to a severe anaphylactic shock caused by a wheat allergy. This unfortunate incident has shaken Italy and sparked important discussions about allergy safety.
Martina and her mother had gone for lung tests at a clinic. According to "Fakt," after their medical visit, they decided to have lunch at a restaurant in Rome where Martina ordered gnocchi.
Gnocchi are Italian dumplings generally made from potatoes, wheat flour, and eggs. Other ingredients, such as cheese (e.g., ricotta), or other variations, may also be included. After cooking, they are crafted to have a soft and delicate texture and are often shaped like small, round, or elongated dumplings.
About half an hour after the meal, Martina began feeling unwell. She suffered from severe cramps, nausea, vomiting, and difficulty breathing. Her concerned mother administered Ventolin, a bronchodilator, but Martina's condition rapidly deteriorated.
An ambulance was called. The paramedics administered adrenaline, but unfortunately, Martina experienced cardiac arrest while in the ambulance. Despite resuscitation efforts and the dedication of hospital doctors, Martina passed away the following day.
In the face of tragedy, Martina's parents, although divorced, united in their decision to donate her organs to help other children in need. This incident has sparked a broader conversation in Italy regarding food allergies and safety in dining establishments.
A profound tragedy in Italy. The 9-year-old's mother speaks out
Italian law mandates clear allergen information on menus and requires staff training in this area. It remains unclear if the restaurant where Martina dined adhered to these regulations, and an investigation is currently underway.
“I asked the restaurant to check the gnocchi packaging. We were always cautious; I can't comprehend how this happened. I am devastated,” said Martina's mother in an interview with the Italian newspaper "Corriere della Sera."
Martina's funeral took place on Tuesday, December 10, attended by family, friends, teachers, and classmates who bid her farewell by releasing dozens of white balloons into the sky.
“She was always smiling, full of life. She left us too soon, in a way that is terribly wrong and unacceptable,” one of the teachers remarked emotionally.
