Karnataka on high alert after nationwide reports of child deaths linked to cough syrups

In the wake of reports of child deaths linked to adulterated cough syrups in Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan, the Karnataka Health Department is on high alert, directing the collection and testing of all cough syrup brands sold in the State.

Health Minister Dinesh Gundu Rao said precautionary measures had been taken although no spurious or substandard formulations had been detected in Karnataka so far. “Drug control officers have been instructed to collect and test samples across districts. Karnataka has always maintained vigilance in drug quality testing and will continue to do so,” he told reporters in Channarayapatna, Hassan district on Monday.

The State Health Department has issued an advisory cautioning against the indiscriminate use of cough syrups, especially among children below five years of age. “Parents must exercise utmost care and use these medicines only on medical advice. Cough syrups should be given sparingly and only when clinically indicated,” Mr. Rao said.