Panic in Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan: 11 children die after consuming cough syrup; Drug Controller Dept conducts raid in Jabalpur
A cough syrup is causing serious problems for children in Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan, leading to the tragic deaths of 11 children due to kidney failure. These children had taken the syrup after experiencing common cold and fever symptoms, which has alarmed both health officials and parents. The situation is particularly critical in Chhindwara, Madhya Pradesh, where nine children have died in just the past fifteen days.
1,420 other children showing similar symptoms in Chhindwara
In Chhindwara, at least five of the deceased children had taken a syrup called Coldref, while one had used Nectro syrup. The Sub-Divisional Magistrate, Shubham Yadav, confirmed these deaths and stated that the health department is monitoring 1,420 other children showing similar symptoms. Parents are being advised to take children to the hospital if their condition worsens after two days.
The cough syrup under scrutiny contains dextromethorphan hydrobromide, a cough suppressant for dry coughs. Doctors caution that this medication should not be given to children under 2 years old and must be administered carefully to those aged 2 to 6. Incorrect dosages can lead to serious health issues, including dizziness and damage to the kidneys and liver.
Drug Controller Dept conducts raid in Jabalpur
Following the deaths of nine children in Chhindwara district of Madhya Pradesh after consuming cough syrup, the Drug Controller's Department raided Kataria Pharmaceuticals in Jabalpur. Kataria Pharma, Jabalpur, supplied the cough syrup. The Drug Controller's Department confiscated samples of the cough syrup from Kataria Pharma.
5-member team arrives in Jabalpur to investigate
Following the deaths of children in Chhindwara due to cough syrup, a five-member team arrived in Jabalpur to investigate. The Drug and Pharmaceuticals Department raided Kataria Pharmaceuticals Distributor. Kataria Pharmaceuticals Distributor had supplied cough syrups to New Apna Agency, Ayush Pharma, and Jain Medical and General Stores in Chhindwara.
Sale banned, samples collected
In response to this alarming situation, the governments of Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan have banned the sale and distribution of the cough syrup. The National Center for Disease Control (NCDC) has collected samples of water and medicine from both states for testing. Additionally, the Rajasthan Medical Services Corporation has prohibited the sale of 19 batches of the syrup. Health officials are urging parents and doctors to stay alert.
Prakash Kumar Pandey