On Tuesday the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE) issued a warning to parents about magnetic jewellery and magnetic fidget toys like the items Teague’s daughter swallowed. The warning comes off the back of a recent article on RNZ that detailed five kids in Czech who swallowed magnets inspired by a TikTok “piercing challenge”. The fidget toys are often advertised as sensory toys or desk toys that can relieve stress by running your fingers through them or making various shapes with them. “If someone swallows or inhales just two of these magnets, serious harm could occur, and may result in them needing surgery. Parents who suspect their child has swallowed magnets should head straight to their nearest emergency department and inform the reception as soon as they get there.

Source: New Zealand Herald October 16, 2024 14:33 UTC