Medical education dept too issues guidelines on cough syrup use

BENGALURU: After the deaths of children due to cough syrup in other states, guidelines have been released across all states. After the Karnataka Health Department has also released guidelines, the Medical Education Department has also issued guidelines for all hospitals under medical colleges.

The guidelines emphasise that maternity hospitals should closely monitor pregnant women and awareness should be created among expectant mothers and parents about the safe use of syrups.

Precautions for lactating women regarding syrup use:

1. For infants with cough, breastfeed instead of giving syrup.

2. If the baby shows signs of pneumonia, consult a doctor instead of using syrup.

3. Consult a doctor when the baby is sick, avoid self-medication.

4. Give medication to the baby as advised by the doctor for persistent cough.

5. Avoid using syrup for an extended period.