Health officials in India report that 20 children have died in Madhya Pradesh and several more remain critically ill after taking Coldrif cough syrup. The state health minister said the youngsters suffered kidney failure because the medicine was contaminated with diethylene glycol and other toxic solvents. The World Health Organization has asked India whether the product was exported and is considering issuing a global medical products alert once it receives official confirmation【956980709457630†L121-L142】.

An investigation has been launched into the deaths. A special investigative team inspected the factory near Chennai that makes the syrup, and samples were found to be adulterated【956980709457630†L145-L154】. The company has been ordered to halt production, and several states including Telangana, Punjab and Tamil Nadu have banned Coldrif. WHO officials say they are assessing the need for broader action to prevent further harm.