Girl's Tragic Death Sparks Investigation After Hospital Visit
A 12-year-old Italian girl has died from pneumonia just two days after being sent home from hospital with a suspected case of flu. Azzurra Breda passed away at 10am on 31 December, New Year's Eve, following a rapid deterioration in her condition.
Timeline of a Tragedy
Azzurra, from Sant'Angelo di Piove di Sacco near Padua, was first taken to a paediatric A&E department after developing a fever and breathing difficulties. Medical staff assessed her and discharged her, believing her symptoms were caused by a simple flu virus.
After returning home, her condition worsened dramatically. Her temperature soared to 40C (104F), prompting her worried parents, Valentina and Mattia, to rush her back to A&E the following day. This time, she was immediately admitted to intensive care, but sadly could not be saved.
A post-mortem examination was scheduled for 12 January as part of an official investigation into the circumstances surrounding her death.
A Life Full of Promise
Tributes have painted a picture of a vibrant and talented child. Azzurra was described as an athletic and energetic dancer, an outstanding student, and a pianist of four years. She also sang in the children's choir at her local parish church.
Her parents stated she had no pre-existing health conditions and had passed sports medical examinations with excellent results just last October. She leaves behind her parents and a younger sister.
Mayor Guido Carlin paid tribute, saying: "She was a well-known and much-loved girl - quiet, polite and actively involved in village life... what struck me most was her smile."
Understanding Pneumonia and Its Symptoms
Pneumonia is an inflammation of the lungs, usually caused by an infection. While many people recover in two to four weeks, it can become serious, particularly for the very young or elderly.
Key symptoms to be aware of include:
- A cough – which may be dry or produce thick yellow, green, brown or blood-stained mucus.
- Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath.
- A high temperature (fever).
- Chest pain or discomfort.
- Loss of appetite, fatigue, and confusion (particularly in older people).
The NHS advises seeking an urgent GP appointment or calling 111 if: a cough lasts more than three weeks, you cough up blood, experience shortness of breath, or have chest pain that comes and goes or worsens when breathing or coughing.
Call 999 or go to A&E immediately if: you or someone else is struggling to breathe, has blue, pale or blotchy skin, lips or tongue, feels suddenly confused, or is very drowsy or difficult to wake. The health service stresses that you should not drive yourself in such an emergency.
