Expired cough syrup allegedly distributed to flood-hit children in Kanpur

Flood-hit families in Kanpur’s Mayapuram area have alleged that an expired cough syrup was distributed as part of relief supplies, after which several children fell ill.

On Monday, September 7, a Health Department team visited the area and distributed medicines among around 20 flood-affected families. One of the medicines was a cough syrup that had expired in July 2026, according to India Today.

A four-year-old boy reportedly started vomiting after taking the syrup. His family took him to a private doctor after his condition worsened. Two other boys, both aged three, also reportedly fell ill after taking the medicine.

The incident caused panic among residents, who later threw away the allegedly expired syrup and other medicines. When the health team returned to the area on Tuesday, September 8, residents reportedly refused to accept the medicines.

The mother of one of the children alleged that members of the health team admitted the syrup had been given by mistake and offered Rs 100 for the child’s treatment. The family refused the money and questioned who would be responsible if the child’s condition worsened.

With the Pandu River continuing to rise, residents said they were already dealing with the effects of flooding and the threat of illness.

Chief Medical Officer Dr Haridutt Nemi said the matter had come to the department’s notice and an investigation was underway. He said further details would be given after the inquiry.

The alleged distribution of expired medicine has raised questions over the quality of medical supplies being provided to flood-affected families in the area.