Expired Cough Syrup Distributed to Flood-Hit Families in Kanpur, Children Fall Ill

Flood-hit families in Uttar Pradesh's Kanpur district have alleged that children fell ill after consuming cough syrup distributed as part of relief assistance, with the medicine reportedly found to have expired in July 2026.

The incident has raised serious concerns over the quality and safety of medicines being distributed to families affected by flooding in the district.

According to residents, a Health Department team visited the Mayapuram area on Monday afternoon and distributed medicines among around 20 flood-affected families. The relief package allegedly included cough syrup that had already crossed its expiry date.

A four-year-old boy reportedly began vomiting after consuming the syrup. His family took him to a nearby private doctor after his condition worsened, and he reportedly improved following treatment.

Two other children, both aged three, were also reported to have fallen ill after consuming the medicines and syrup distributed during the relief drive.

The reported illnesses caused panic among families in the flood-hit locality. Residents allegedly discarded the cough syrup and other medicines after discovering concerns about their expiry dates.

When the Health Department team returned to Mayapuram on Tuesday with another supply of medicines, several flood-affected residents reportedly refused to accept them, expressing concerns over the safety and quality of the medicines being provided.

The mother of one of the affected children alleged that members of the health team admitted that the expired syrup had been distributed by mistake and offered Rs 100 towards the child's treatment. The family reportedly refused the money and demanded accountability over the incident.

The controversy comes as flood-affected families in Kanpur continue to face difficult conditions, including concerns over disease and health risks as water levels in the Pandu River remain high.

Residents said the alleged distribution of expired medicines had further increased anxiety among families who were expecting safe medical assistance as part of flood relief operations.

Chief Medical Officer Dr Haridutt Nemi said the matter had come to the attention of the authorities and that an investigation was underway. Further details are expected after the enquiry is completed.