After the tragic deaths of 11 children in Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan from consuming 'deadly' cough syrup, the Kerala government has now banned the sale and distribution of Coldrif cough syrup in the state. Health Minister Veena George announced on Saturday that this decision was based on reports from other states expressing concerns about a suspicious batch of the syrup.
According to a report by the news agency PTI, the preliminary investigation by the state's Drugs Control Department revealed that the batch in question was not sold in Kerala. Nonetheless, for safety reasons, the Drugs Controller has instructed all drug inspectors to completely halt the sale and distribution of the syrup.
Instructions to 8 Distributors and All Medical Stores
Health Minister Veena George explained that the medication was being sold through 8 distributors in the state, and immediate orders have been issued to cease its distribution and sale at all centers. Additionally, medical stores have been instructed to stop selling Coldrif syrup.
Samples Sent for Examination
Minister Veena George disclosed that a comprehensive inspection campaign is underway in the state. Samples of Coldrif syrup have been collected and sent for examination. Likewise, samples of other cough syrups have also been brought under the scope of investigation.
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Guidelines for Cough Syrups for Children
The Health Minister noted that according to the guidelines of the Director General of Health Services (DGHS), cough syrup should not be given to children under the age of 2. If such a prescription comes from a doctor, medical stores are instructed not to sell it.
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Action Following Child Deaths in Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan
After the deaths of 11 children in Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan, doubts were raised about Coldrif syrup. Congress leader Kamal Nath claimed that the deaths might be due to adulteration with 'brake oil solvent' in the cough syrup. The deaths of 9 children were confirmed in Chhindwara, Madhya Pradesh, while 2 children died in Rajasthan. Consequently, a ban has been imposed on Coldrif cough syrup in both Madhya Pradesh and Tamil Nadu.
