The Dublin Coroner is to ask the HSE to raise awareness about the potential dangers of baby slings following the tragic death of a five-week-old boy just under two years ago.

An inquest into the death yesterday heard that the baby boy was found unresponsive after being carried in a sling at a Christmas Market in Dublin in December 2022.

He died 11 days later at Temple Street Hospital in Dublin and the inquest was told he died of severe brain injuries caused by lack of oxygen.

At the hearing, Pathologist Michael McDermott noted that the tragic death was “extremely unusual”, adding that the boy’s parents should not blame themselves – noting that the tragic death was “nobody’s fault” and that it was not linked to “something you did or failed to do”.

Coroner Dr Crona Gallagher also told the parents that the death was “nobody’s fault”, describing it as “very unfortunate and tragic”.

She said she would notify the HSE about the case and ask for information and advice on the use of baby slings to be sent to all maternity hospitals.

On Newstalk Breakfast this morning, Paediatric Intensive Care Consultant offered parents this advice on baby slings.

“The risks are really around making sure that your baby's head is gently turned to the side so that you're sure that your baby always has a clear way of breathing,” she said.

“It's very important that you yourself don't go to sleep lying on your back with your baby in your sling.

“If you look like you're going to go asleep, take the baby out of the sling and pop the baby into the cot beside you.”

Baby sling

Dr Crowe said the coroner was “doing a good job” in publicising the risk associated with baby slings.

“It isn't widely known,” she said. “But the other thing that has changed is that slings have really become so much more popular in the last couple of years.

“There's lots of different types of slings.

“The fabric ones are very easy to use but there's no doubt that a small baby is held very closely to your chest, which is great because it's one of the things that settles them down but it also means that there is a risk that your baby won't be able to breathe.

“So do be careful if you're wearing the baby in a fabric sling under your coat that your baby's head has not turned to the middle so your baby can't breathe.”

Safety

In 2022, a UK study warned that many cheaper baby carriers purchased online failed basic safety standards.

Ten out of the 11 products included in the ‘Which?’ study were found to be unsafe – with nine could “potentially lethal if used to carry a real baby”.

All of the products tested cost less than £30 (€35) – compared to the £100 (€117.50) similar products would cost in high street shops.

The British watchdog said parents should ensure all baby carriers follow the 'TICKS' rule for safety.

• T – Tight
• I – In view at all times
• C – Close enough to kiss
• K – Keeping chin off chest
• S – Supported back