Infant’s Death in Madhya Pradesh Sparks Investigation into Medicines

A tragic incident in Madhya Pradesh has resulted in the death of a five-month-old girl, Ruhi Minote, reportedly linked to Ayurvedic medicines, including a cough syrup. Officials confirmed that samples of the medicines have been sent for testing as part of an ongoing investigation. This event unfolds against the backdrop of a disturbing trend, with 25 children in Chhindwara and surrounding districts having died in the past two months due to renal failure associated with the allopathic cough syrup, Coldrif, which was found to contain a toxic industrial solvent.

The infant, a resident of Bichhua in Chaurai subdivision, had been experiencing symptoms of cold and cough prior to her death on March 14, 2024. Following this tragedy, her father lodged a complaint at the local police station, alleging that the Ayurvedic medications were responsible for her passing.

Investigation and Medical Response

Dr. Naresh Gonnade, the Chief Medical and Health Officer of Chhindwara, stated that Ruhi’s father had purchased an Ayurvedic cough syrup and a medicinal powder from a local pharmacy without a doctor’s prescription. The father had administered the medicines for two days before the infant’s death. Dr. Gonnade mentioned, “The medicine had not been prescribed by a doctor and the father had bought it over the counter. We are currently probing if the store owner himself gave these medicines or if the father had specifically asked for them.” An FIR has been registered at the Bichhua police station, and authorities have seized the medicines from the Minote family and sealed the pharmacy involved.

A post-mortem examination has been conducted, and the infant’s viscera samples have been sent for forensic analysis. Dr. Gonnade emphasized the need for caution, stating, “At this time, we cannot assume that the death was caused by any medicine. We will have to wait for all the reports.”

Community Awareness and Health Concerns

Chaurai Sub-Divisional Magistrate Prabhat Mishra provided additional context, noting that Ruhi did not exhibit symptoms such as vomiting or difficulty urinating, which were present in the cases of children who consumed Coldrif syrup. “The family has not reported any of those symptoms. We have consulted the Block Medical Officer and local doctors, and prima facie they think that she had symptoms of pneumonia. It will be confirmed after viscera and other test reports,” Mr. Mishra stated.

In light of these incidents, the district administration is actively promoting awareness campaigns, urging residents to avoid purchasing medicines without a doctor’s prescription. This initiative is part of a broader effort to address health safety in the community and prevent further tragedies related to unregulated medicine use.

As the investigation unfolds, local authorities remain committed to ensuring the safety and health of the community, with a focus on proper medical guidance and oversight.