Preliminary research ordered o procurator of Bordeauxtwo days after the event multiple cases of botulism which cost the life of one 32-year-old Greek woman at a famous Bordeaux restaurant that allegedly served contaminated sardines that caused the illness.

The unfortunate girl had lunch with her Irish husband, who is also in intensive care in a stable condition. A total of twelve tourists who ate at the restaurant are hospitalized due to foodborne botulism caused by improperly preserved food. A total of 25 people are estimated to have consumed the sardines, while authorities have advised that symptoms may still be present as late as this weekend.

“I am better. I still have a lot of trouble swallowing and I still have a lot of fatigue. Matt (my partner) can’t open his eyes and he’s still intubated,” said Christy Brenner, a tourist who got sick.

A toxin produced by bacteria in the can that causes this dangerous myoparalytic disease, with symptoms of abdominal pain and vomiting, as well as neurological problems

“It is a very rapidly developing disease. Once it attacks the nerves, it blocks them. And in a few minutes you can be dead,” explains Benjamin Clouzot, an intensivist at the University Hospital of Bordeaux.

The 32-year-old Greek woman, a permanent resident of Paris, presented the symptoms and went to the emergency room in Bordeaux, but unfortunately they were unable to diagnose the disease in time. Returning to Paris, he was hospitalized in the intensive care unit where he ended up, while the hospital notified the Bordeaux authorities to ascertain the reason why he was not hospitalized there in time.

“Sometimes doctors don’t think about botulism, they tell patients that they have food poisoning, which progresses very quickly,” notes Dr. Robert Sebag, infectious disease specialist.

The restaurant owner appears to have thrown away jars of sardines due to a strong smell when he opened them, however, he served some others as he said they looked in good condition. The charges against the restaurant include involuntary manslaughter, manslaughter and making available food injurious to health. The penalties provided for are very heavy and include up to five years in prison and a 300,000 – 600,000 euro fine for the restaurateur if found guilty.

An investigation is also underway into possible medical malpractice, as she was discharged from the Bordeaux hospital.

In addition, a forensic examination was carried out today on the body of the 32-year-old woman, the results of which will be known early next week.