WHO Issues Global Warning Over Contaminated Indian Cough Syrups After Child Deaths

The World Health Organization (WHO) has issued a global health warning about three contaminated cough syrups made in India. The alert came after at least 19 children died in Madhya Pradesh. Tests revealed that the syrups contained nearly 500 times the safe limit of diethylene glycol, a highly toxic chemical. WHO urged all countries to stay alert and report any detection of these medicines to prevent further tragedies. The organization stressed that the tainted syrups could cause severe and possibly life-threatening illness, especially in children.

Contaminated Products and Safety Concerns

The affected syrups include specific batches of Coldrif from Sresan Pharmaceutical, Respifresh TR from Rednex Pharmaceuticals, and ReLife from Shape Pharma. Health experts said diethylene glycol can severely damage the kidneys, liver, and nervous system. Ingesting it can lead to vomiting, difficulty breathing, and even death. Therefore, WHO has advised health authorities worldwide to remove these products from circulation immediately. The agency also encouraged doctors and pharmacists to remain vigilant when treating children with cough or cold symptoms.

India’s Response and Global Action

India’s Central Drugs Standard Control Organization (CDSCO) confirmed that all the affected children were under five years old. The syrups were consumed in the Chhindwara district of Madhya Pradesh. Authorities have banned the products after laboratory results confirmed the contamination. However, CDSCO stated that none of the medicines were exported from India, and there is no evidence of illegal shipments. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration also confirmed that these toxic cough syrups were not imported into the United States. As a result, WHO continues to monitor the situation closely and urges transparency to prevent similar tragedies in the future.