At least 16 children have reportedly died in central India since last month after taking a cough syrup found to contain a toxic substance. Authorities have launched an investigation into the matter.
Local media say the victims died after consuming the cough medicine branded Coldrif Syrup. More than 10 others have been hospitalized. The majority of the cases have occurred in the state of Madhya Pradesh.
Authorities say testing found high levels of the toxin diethylene glycol in the syrup, which is a product of Indian pharmaceutical company Sresan Pharma. The substance can cause damage to the kidneys and liver.
Investigators are questioning officials of Sresan Pharma and also the doctor who prescribed the syrup to most of the children.
In January 2023, the World Health Organization issued a call to action on dangerous medical products. It said in the preceding four months, at least 300 people had died across three countries after taking cough syrup containing toxic substances.
AloJapan.com