LONDON: After a string of child fatalities linked to cough syrups last year, the World Health Organization demanded "immediate and concerted action" to safeguard children from tainted medications.
More than 300 children, mostly under the age of five, died of acute kidney injury in 2022 in Gambia, Indonesia, and Uzbekistan, according to a statement released by the WHO on Monday. These deaths were linked to tainted medications.
The drugs, which were over-the-counter cough syrups, contained significant amounts of ethylene and diethylene glycol.
According to the WHO, "These contaminants are toxic chemicals used as antifreeze and industrial solvents that can be fatal even in small amounts, and should never be found in medicines."
The WHO informed Reuters on Monday that in addition to the aforementioned nations, the Philippines, Timor Leste, Senegal, and Cambodia may also be impacted because they might be selling the medicines. It demanded action from its 194 member states in order to stop further fatalities.
Since these incidents are not isolated ones, WHO urged all significant parties involved in the medical supply chain to act quickly and in concert.
In October and earlier this month, the WHO sent specific product alerts requesting that medicines made by Indian companies Maiden Pharmaceuticals and Marion Biotech, which are linked to deaths in the Gambia and Uzbekistan, respectively, be taken off the shelves.
Last year, it also issued a warning for cough syrups sold domestically that were produced by four Indonesian companies: PT Yarindo Farmatama, PT Universal Pharmaceutical, PT Konimex, and PT AFI Pharma.
The companies involved have either refuted claims that their goods were tainted or have chosen to remain silent while inquiries are ongoing.
The WHO reaffirmed its demand that the aforementioned products be taken off the market and expanded its call for nations to make sure that any medicines offered for sale have been approved by appropriate agencies. Additionally, it urged authorities to allocate funds for manufacturer inspections, bolster market oversight, and take appropriate action when necessary.
Manufacturers were urged to test their products more thoroughly, only purchase raw materials from reputable vendors, and maintain records of the production process. The WHO added that suppliers and distributors should look for indications of falsification and only sell or distribute medicines that are approved for use.