The statement said doctors informed the meeting that no problems related to cough syrup for children have been reported in Kerala.

It added that strong awareness campaigns will be carried out to raise public understanding and address concerns.

“Directions have been issued to specifically check if there are any related cases. Training will also be provided to paediatricians and other doctors with the cooperation of the IAP,” the statement said.

Inspections are being conducted in the state under the leadership of the Drugs Control Department.

Following reports that issues were found outside Kerala in the SR-13 batch of Coldrif syrup, its sale has been suspended in the state by the Drugs Control Department. That batch of medicines had been distributed in Tamil Nadu, Odisha, Madhya Pradesh, and Puducherry. In Rajasthan, problems have also been identified with a cough syrup from another company.

Fourteen children recently died in Chhindwara, Madhya Pradesh, from suspected renal failure linked to the consumption of a ‘toxic’ cough syrup.

“It has been confirmed that the sale of these problematic batches has not taken place in Kerala. Coldrif medicines are sold in Kerala through eight distributors. Their supply and sale have now been stopped,” the statement said.

The meeting was attended by the Additional Chief Secretary of the Health Department, NHM State Mission Director, Drugs Controller, Director of the Health Department, Director of the Medical Education Department, Additional Directors, District Medical Officers, Child Health Nodal Officer, IAP President, and others.