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Button batteries - small but dangerous

12 June 2025

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They are tiny, shiny and tempting - and can put a child's life in danger: Button batteries. Our expert Prof Raoul Furlano explains in the video why they are so dangerous and how parents can react correctly.

Whether in remote controls, toys or light decorations - button batteries can be found in many households. But many people don't realise this: If such a battery is swallowed, it can eat its way through a child's oesophagus within a few hours and become life-threatening.

In the new video for World Button Batteries Day, Prof Raoul Furlano, Head of Gastroenterology at UKBB, explains what parents and other carers should look out for, which symptoms should be taken seriously - and how simple measures can be taken to protect children's lives.

Counselling hotline for child and youth emergencies

The Medgate Kids Line provides quick and uncomplicated medical advice if your child is unwell. The medical team of our partner Medgate is available to you by telephone around the clock.

058 387 78 82
(billing via health insurance)

For emergencies abroad: Call the emergency number of your health insurance company. You will find this number on your health insurance card.

More information: On the Page of the emergency ward you will find everything you need to know about behaviour in emergencies, typical childhood illnesses and waiting times.

Important emergency numbers

144 Outpatient clinic
145 Tox Info Suisse (Poisonings)
117 Police
118 Fire brigade

UKBB

University Children's Hospital Basel
Spitalstrasse 33
4056 Basel | CH

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