Tragic Food Poisoning Outbreak Claims Life of 12-Year-Old Girl in Northern France

Health authorities are investigating a suspected food poisoning outbreak in Saint-Quentin, northern France, after the death of a 12-year-old girl and the hospitalization of several children. Two local butchers have been temporarily closed as evidence suggests meat from these shops may be the source.

In a heartbreaking turn of events, a 12-year-old girl has died following a severe food poisoning outbreak in the northern French town of Saint-Quentin. The incident has triggered widespread concern as eight other children have been hospitalized since the outbreak was first reported on June 12. Health officials confirmed that symptoms of the illness began appearing in children aged between one and 12, leading to their urgent admission to hospitals in the region.

The girl succumbed to a rare and serious condition known as haemolytic uraemic syndrome (HUS), which is frequently linked to acute kidney failure and often caused by E.coli bacteria. Reports indicate that as of Wednesday evening, the regional health authority in Hauts-de-France had identified ten confirmed cases, including a child who was transferred to a hospital in Reims. Local mayor Frédérique Macarez expressed ongoing concern over the situation during an interview with France Info radio.

Preliminary investigations have suggested that at least five children consumed meat or meat products from one of the two implicated butchers before falling ill, with another child possibly affected by products from the second shop. Although the link between the illness and the local butchers has not been definitively established, health authorities are taking precautions. Samples from both establishments have been collected for detailed analysis.

In light of the tragic circumstances, one of the affected butchers, La Direction, expressed its condolences to the family of the deceased on Facebook, emphasizing their sadness about the situation. Parents in the area have been advised to avoid consuming certain meat products purchased from the shops in early June and to observe strict food safety practices at home, including regular hand washing and ensuring meats are thoroughly cooked.

Authorities have also reassured the public that local tap water remains safe for consumption, ruling out any contamination from this source. As the investigation continues, families are urged to remain vigilant and follow hygiene guidelines to prevent further cases.