The World Health Organization (WHO) has reached out to the Indian government seeking clarity on whether a locally manufactured cough syrup, Coldrif, has been exported to other countries. The move comes in the wake of a tragic health crisis in Madhya Pradesh, where the syrup has been linked to the deaths of at least 20 children and the hospitalization of several others.

According to a Reuters report, the WHO is awaiting official confirmation from Indian authorities before deciding whether to issue a Global Medical Products Alert regarding the syrup. Such an alert would serve as a worldwide warning to health agencies and consumers about the potential risks associated with the product.

The syrup in question, marketed as Coldrif, was reportedly consumed by children suffering from cold and cough symptoms. However, state health officials have revealed that the product was contaminated, leading to acute kidney injuries in several cases. Five more children remain in critical condition in hospitals, Madhya Pradesh Health Minister Rajendra Shukla confirmed in a statement on Tuesday.

This incident has raised serious concerns about pharmaceutical regulation and the safety of over-the-counter medicines, particularly those aimed at children. Preliminary investigations suggest that the syrup may contain toxic substances such as diethylene glycol or ethylene glycol — industrial solvents that are sometimes wrongly used as cheaper alternatives in syrup formulations. Both substances are known to cause severe kidney damage and have been linked to mass poisoning incidents in the past.

This is not the first time India’s pharmaceutical exports have come under global scrutiny. In recent years, there have been multiple reports of contaminated Indian-made cough syrups causing child deaths in countries like Gambia and Uzbekistan. These incidents had previously triggered warnings and import bans, significantly affecting the credibility of Indian drug manufacturers in the global market.

The Indian government has yet to issue a formal response to the WHO’s request, but pressure is mounting on regulatory bodies like the Central Drugs Standard Control Organization (CDSCO) to investigate and take swift action. Meanwhile, local health officials in Madhya Pradesh are coordinating with central agencies to trace the source of the contaminated batch and remove it from circulation.

As the situation develops, families across India and abroad are waiting anxiously for answers — and accountability.