Child deaths: No cough, cold medicines for children below 2 years, says health advisory

Synopsis: Emphasising the need for rational use of medicines, the DGHS pointed out that most acute cough illnesses in children are self-limiting and resolve without pharmacological intervention. Instead, non-drug measures such as adequate hydration, rest, and supportive care should be the first line of treatment.

Days after reports of child deaths linked to cough syrup consumption in Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan, the Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS) has issued a nationwide advisory, cautioning against the use of cough and cold medicines in young children.

The advisory, addressed to all states and Union Territories, stated that “cough and cold medications should not be prescribed or dispensed to children under 2 years. These are generally not recommended for ages below 5 and