Pediatrician Investigated After 2-Year-Old’s Death

A 76-year-old pediatrician is under investigation following the death of a 2-year-old girl last Saturday in Borgo Valbelluna, Italy. The girl died after being discharged from the emergency room at santa Maria del Prato hospital in Feltre (belluno).The pediatrician, described as a “tokenist” – a temporary hire to address healthcare staffing shortages – was on duty the night the girl was brought to the hospital.

The girl’s parents sought medical attention due to a high fever,weakness,and strabismus. The pediatrician examined the child, diagnosed her with acute laryngotracheitis, and prescribed antibiotics and aerosol therapy before discharging her. Tragically, the girl died in her father’s arms just hours later.

The Belluno public prosecutor’s office has opened a manslaughter investigation based on a complaint filed by the girl’s parents. An investigation is underway to determine the cause of death and whether all appropriate measures were taken to save the child’s life.