The WHO is working closely with authorities to track the distribution of contaminated syrups and prevent further incidents. Photo credit: BlurryMe/Shutterstock
The World Health Organisation (WHO) has issued a warning over several cough syrups produced in India following multiple child deaths. Laboratory investigations have revealed that the syrups contain toxic substances, including diethylene glycol and ethylene glycol, chemicals commonly used in industrial processes such as antifreeze, resins, and solvents which are highly dangerous if ingested. Authorities are urging urgent action to prevent further fatalities and to alert healthcare providers and caregivers about the risks of these products.
Affected Products and Distribution
Specific Products
The affected syrups, including Coldrif, Respifresh TR, and ReLife, were manufactured by Indian companies and reportedly did not enter official export channels. However, the WHO has highlighted the possibility that these products could still reach other countries via unregulated or informal supply chains. Authorities are calling for heightened vigilance to ensure that these contaminated syrups are removed from circulation before causing additional harm.
WHO Response and Monitoring
Global Alert Measures
In response, the WHO issued a Medical Product Alert, urging national regulatory authorities to conduct targeted market surveillance. The alert focuses on informal and unregulated supply chains where unsafe products may circulate undetected. Countries are encouraged to monitor both official and unofficial pharmaceutical channels, remove potentially contaminated syrups, and educate healthcare providers and parents about the associated risks.
Past Incidents
This is not the first occurrence of such incidents. In 2022, four cough syrups from Maiden Pharmaceuticals were linked to the deaths of 66 children in The Gambia. In 2023, 18 children in Uzbekistan died after consuming syrups produced by Marion Biotech. These tragic events underscore the dangers of unregulated medicines and highlight the need for international cooperation in monitoring pharmaceutical exports from India and other manufacturing hubs.
Public Safety Measures
Guidance for Authorities and Parents
National health authorities are urged to verify imported cough syrups, ensure proper labelling, and conduct laboratory testing where possible. Parents are advised to avoid using syrups obtained outside authorised pharmacies or through informal channels. Healthcare providers should also be informed to identify and report adverse events linked to these products quickly. Awareness campaigns can help reduce the risk of further child fatalities and ensure that contaminated products do not reach vulnerable populations.
Summary of Risks
- WHO has issued alerts over Coldrif, Respifresh TR, and ReLife.
- Syrups were not officially exported but could appear through illicit channels.
- Authorities are urged to target informal and unregulated supply chains.
- Previous incidents in Gambia and Uzbekistan highlight global vulnerability.
- Parents and healthcare providers advised to exercise extreme caution.
Preventing Further Incidents
The WHO is working closely with Indian authorities, other regulatory agencies, and international partners to track the distribution of contaminated syrups and prevent further incidents. Strengthening pharmaceutical supply chain oversight and monitoring informal markets remain critical priorities. Parents, caregivers, and healthcare providers are urged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious products immediately. With coordinated global action, authorities hope to prevent further tragedies and ensure that all medicines, particularly those intended for children, meet stringent safety standards.
