October 3rd 2025.
The recent news of 11 child deaths in Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan due to alleged contamination in cough syrups has caused concern among the public. In response, the government has issued an advisory to all states and union territories, emphasizing the importance of using such syrups in children in a rational manner.
According to reports, nine children in Chhindwara, Madhya Pradesh and two children in Rajasthan - one in Bharatpur and another in Sikar - passed away after consuming counterfeit cough syrup in these states. Many believed that the presence of Diethylene Glycol or Ethylene Glycol, which are known to cause kidney injury, in these syrups was the cause of these tragic deaths.
However, the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare has clarified that the cough syrups were not contaminated with these harmful chemicals. This conclusion was reached after a thorough investigation conducted by a joint team consisting of representatives from National Centre for Disease Control, National Institute of Virology, Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation, etc.
The team collected samples of various cough syrups in coordination with state authorities and conducted tests, which showed no presence of Diethylene Glycol or Ethylene Glycol. The Madhya Pradesh State Food and Drug Administration also tested samples and confirmed the absence of these contaminants. Moreover, blood and CSF samples were tested for common pathogens, and only one case was found positive for Leptospirosis.
To further understand the cause of these unfortunate incidents, the Ministry stated that all possible factors are being investigated. In light of these incidents, an advisory has been issued to all states and union territories by the Director General of Health Services, Dr. Sunita Sharma, emphasizing the need for rational use of cough syrups in children.
Dr. Sharma also highlighted the fact that most acute cough illnesses in children are self-limiting and do not require medication. Cough and cold medications are generally not recommended for children under 5 years of age and should only be used after careful clinical evaluation and close supervision.
In addition, the DGHS stressed the importance of opting for non-pharmacological measures, such as hydration, rest, and supportive care, as the first-line approach for treating cough and cold in children. It was also urged that all healthcare facilities and clinical establishments should ensure the procurement and dispensing of products manufactured under Good Manufacturing Practices and formulated with pharmaceutical-grade excipients.
In conclusion, the government has taken swift action to address the issue of alleged contamination in cough syrups and has urged the public to use them in a rational and safe manner, keeping in mind the well-being of our children.
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