Ullal: In a heartbreaking incident at Kolya near Thokkottu in Ullal, an eight-year-old girl died of suffocation after accidentally swallowing a plastic Ludo coin while playing at home on the afternoon of February 21.
The deceased has been identified as Tanushka (8), the second daughter of Rajesh Gatti and Rajeshwari, natives of Madhur Uliyathadka in Kasargod district. The family had recently shifted to a rented house in Kolya so that her mother, a teacher in Ullal, could stay closer to her workplace.
Choking while playing at home
According to family sources, Tanushka was at home as it was a school holiday. She was playing Ludo with her siblings when she accidentally put a cone-shaped plastic coin in her mouth. In the course of play, she is believed to have swallowed the coin, which led to sudden choking.
Noticing that she was struggling to breathe, her mother immediately sought help from neighbours. The child was rushed to a private hospital in Thokkottu for emergency treatment. However, due to the seriousness of her condition, she was later shifted to another private hospital in Deralakatte for advanced medical care.
Despite efforts by doctors to revive her, Tanushka was declared brought dead.
Post-mortem findings
A post-mortem examination conducted later revealed that a plastic toy was lodged in her lungs, leading to suffocation. Doctors indicated that the obstruction in the airway caused respiratory failure.
The incident has raised concerns about the risks posed by small plastic toys and game pieces, especially among young children.
School and community in shock
Tanushka was a Class II student of St Sebastian High School, Thokkottu. Teachers and classmates were reportedly devastated upon learning about her sudden demise. Neighbours described her as a cheerful and active child.
The family, who had recently relocated to Kolya, is said to be inconsolable. Both parents were hospitalised following the traumatic incident due to shock and emotional distress.
Relatives and well-wishers gathered at the residence to offer condolences and support to the grieving family.
Safety reminder for parents
Medical professionals note that small objects such as coins, toy parts and buttons can pose serious choking hazards to children. Parents and caregivers are advised to ensure that children, especially those below 10 years, do not put small items in their mouths while playing.
Immediate first aid and swift medical intervention are critical in cases of choking. Awareness about basic emergency response techniques can help prevent fatalities in similar situations.
The tragic loss of young Tanushka has left the Ullal and Thokkottu communities mourning and serves as a painful reminder of the importance of vigilance when children are handling small objects.