One-Year-Old in Critical Condition After Swallowing Battery in Florence
Florence, Italy – April 10, 2025, 12:22 PM PDT
A one-year-old child from Torre del Lago, Lucca, was airlifted to Meyer Children’s Hospital in Florence on Wednesday, April 9, 2025, in critical condition after swallowing a small battery, known as a “pile” in Italian. The incident, which has left the local community shaken, prompted an urgent red-code emergency response due to the life-threatening nature of the ingestion.
The toddler, whose identity has not been disclosed, reportedly accessed the battery at home, though the exact circumstances remain under investigation. Emergency services were alerted around midday when the child began showing signs of distress. A Pegaso air ambulance swiftly transported the child to Meyer, a leading pediatric hospital, where medical teams are working to stabilize the patient. Button batteries, often found in toys, remote controls, or small electronics, pose severe risks when swallowed, as they can lodge in the esophagus, causing burns, internal damage, or even death within hours if not removed promptly.
Hospital officials have not released updates on the child’s condition, citing privacy concerns, but the case has sparked renewed warnings about household hazards. Local authorities are examining how the incident occurred, with early reports suggesting the battery may have come from a common device. The family, understandably distraught, is receiving support as they await further news.
This tragic event underscores the dangers of small objects within reach of young children, with experts urging parents to secure batteries and similar items. As Florence holds its breath, the focus remains on the medical team at Meyer and the hope for the child’s recovery.