The National Agency for Food and Drugs Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has alerted Nigerians about a dangerous cough syrup called ‘Naturcold.’
Reports reveal that the cough syrup which is reportedly manufactured by Fraken Group is believed to have caused the deaths of six children under the age of five at a health facility in the health district of Fundong, in the North-West region of Cameroon.
According to the North-West Regional of Cameroon delegate for Public Health, the children showed a decrease in kidney function after using the cough syrup.
NAFDAC, in a recent press statement said the product is not authorised for marketing in Cameroon and was purchased from unauthorised sources.
“Although the product is not in NAFDAC database, importers, distributors, retailers, and consumers are advised to exercise caution and vigilance within the supply chain to avoid the importation, distribution, sale and use of the substandard (contaminated) syrups,” the agency said.
“All medical products must be obtained from authorised/licensed suppliers. The products’ authenticity and physical condition should be carefully checked.
“NAFDAC implores members of the public to desist from purchasing medicinal products from unauthorised sources such as roadside vendors and street hawkers as fake drugs are mostly smuggled into the country from neighbouring countries and distributed through such inappropriate channels.
“Anyone in possession of the above-mentioned product is advised to discontinue sale or use and submit stock to the nearest NAFDAC office.”
