Madhya Pradesh Child Deaths Rise to 9 Linked to Contaminated Cough Syrup

Madhya Pradesh is grappling with a tragic health crisis as nine children have died in just over two weeks due to acute kidney failure in Chhindwara district. Initially appearing as ordinary seasonal fever cases, investigations now suggest a deadly link to contaminated cough syrups.

Health authorities revealed that at least five of the nine children had consumed Coldref syrup, while one had taken Nextro syrup. Similar cases have been reported in Rajasthan’s Sikar district, prompting interstate alert and surveillance.

Parasia Sub-divisional magistrate Shubham Yadav confirmed that precautionary measures are being implemented, with six deaths already reported by October 1. Authorities are monitoring 1,420 children with cold, fever, and flu-like symptoms across Madhya Pradesh.

A strict protocol has been put in place: any child sick for more than two days undergoes six-hour monitoring at the Civil Hospital, with worsening cases referred to the District Hospital. Once stabilized, children are sent home under ASHA worker supervision.

Tests on water and mosquito vectors conducted so far have returned normal. Samples sent to the National Institute of Virology also showed no abnormalities, while water samples sent for testing by CSIR are awaited.

The National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) has collected syrup samples from hospitals and other sites in Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan for testing to rule out infectious causes.

Authorities have instructed private doctors not to treat viral patients privately, but to refer them to Civil Hospitals immediately. Meanwhile, the Rajasthan Medical Services Corporation (RMSCL) has banned the sale of 19 batches of the syrup, and advisories have been issued to parents, medical practitioners, and pharmacy operators to remain vigilant.

Officials urge parents and caregivers to monitor children closely, avoid administering unverified syrups, and report any unusual symptoms to the nearest hospital promptly.