Chennai, 9 October (H.S.) : The World Health Organization (WHO) has sought clarification from India regarding a cough syrup called Coldrif, which has been linked to the deaths of at least 20 children in Madhya Pradesh.

The syrup, manufactured by Nirma Pharmaceuticals, is suspected to contain toxic substances like diethylene glycol or ethylene glycol, which can cause severe kidney damage.The WHO is assessing whether a Global Medical Products Alert should be issued for the syrup, which would serve as a worldwide warning to health agencies and consumers.

Preliminary investigations suggest that the syrup may have been contaminated, prompting local health officials to launch an investigation and work with central agencies to trace the source of the contaminated batch and remove it from circulation.

This incident has raised concerns about pharmaceutical regulation and safety in India, particularly after similar incidents involving Indian-made cough syrups were reported in countries like Gambia and Uzbekistan.

The Indian government has yet to issue a formal response to the WHO's request, but the pressure is mounting on regulatory bodies like the Central Drugs Standard Control Organization (CDSCO) to investigate and take swift action.

Currently, five children remain in critical condition in hospitals in Madhya Pradesh, and the situation is being closely monitored .

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Hindusthan Samachar / Dr. R. B. Chaudhary