Two children dead, several ill after consuming cough syrup distributed by Rajasthan govt

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Rajasthan is facing a health scare after a government-supplied cough syrup manufactured by Kayson Pharma allegedly led to the deaths of two children and left at least 10 others seriously ill across multiple districts over the past two weeks. Shockingly, a doctor who consumed the syrup to prove its safety also fell unconscious and was found hours later in his car.

The first tragedy came to light on Monday when Nitish, a five-year-old from Sikar district, died hours after his mother gave him the syrup prescribed at a community health centre. His uncle said the boy had been healthy and had even attended a Navratri programme earlier that evening.

Subsequently, the family of two-year-old Samrat Jatav from Bharatpur linked his death on September 22 to the same syrup, after learning about Nitish’s case. Samrat’s siblings, who also consumed the medicine, survived after vomiting but the toddler never regained consciousness.

In another shocking incident, Bayana-based doctor Tarachand Yogi consumed the syrup himself after a patient’s family raised concerns. Hours later, he was discovered unconscious in his parked car. An ambulance driver who also took the syrup reported similar symptoms but recovered after treatment.

Meanwhile, at least eight more children aged one to five fell ill in Banswara district after being given the medicine, though most have since recovered.

Following the reports, the Rajasthan government has banned 22 batches of the syrup, halted its distribution, and launched an inquiry. Over 1.33 lakh bottles had already been dispensed since July. Officials confirmed samples are being tested, and Kayson Pharma’s supplies have been suspended.

The company’s factory was found locked when NDTV reporters visited, and its owner was unavailable for comment.