In Cameroon, the deaths of six children under the age of five have been linked to a substandard cough syrup named “Naturcold,” believed to be manufactured by Fraken Group. The children were admitted to a health facility in the health district of Fundong, in the North-West region of Cameroon, where they showed a decrease in kidney function after consuming the suspected substandard cough syrup.
Speaking about the incident, the North-West Regional of Cameroon delegate for Public Health stated, “We have launched an investigation to determine the exact cause of the deaths, but we suspect that the substandard cough syrup is responsible. We have sent samples of the syrup to the laboratory for further analysis and we hope to get the results soon.”
Following the incident, the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) issued a press statement on its website warnings against the use of “Naturcold” as well as cautioning importers, distributors, retailers, and consumers to exercise caution and vigilance within the supply chain to avoid the importation, distribution, sale, and use of substandard and contaminated syrups.
In the statement, NAFDAC confirmed that the cough syrup in question is not authorized for marketing in Cameroon and was purchased from unauthorized sources. “All medical products must be obtained from authorized/licensed suppliers. The products’ authenticity and physical condition should be carefully checked,” the agency warned.
NAFDAC further implored members of the public to desist from purchasing medicinal products from unauthorized sources, such as roadside vendors and street hawkers, as fake drugs are mostly smuggled into the country from neighboring countries and distributed through such inappropriate channels.
“If you, or someone you know, have used these products, or suffered any adverse reaction/event after use, you are advised to seek immediate medical advice from a qualified healthcare professional,” NAFDAC added.
The incident has raised concerns about the safety and quality of drugs in the country. Speaking about the issue, a pharmacist who preferred to remain anonymous stated, “It is quite alarming to hear about substandard drugs being sold in the country. As healthcare professionals, we rely on the quality of drugs to provide the best care to our patients. The government and regulatory bodies must take stringent measures to ensure that only quality drugs are sold in the country.”
Echoing the pharmacist’s concerns, a health worker at a local clinic in Surulere Lagos stated, “The incident in Cameroon is a clear indication that there are loopholes in the drug supply chain. It is imperative that their authorities tighten regulations to ensure that only quality drugs are sold in the Country, my condolences to the affected families in Cameron.”
Meanwhile, health officials in Cameroon are urging the public to exercise caution and only purchase drugs from authorized/licensed suppliers to avoid such tragic incidents in the future.
“Members of the public must be vigilant when purchasing drugs. They must ensure that the drugs are obtained from authorized/licensed suppliers and that the products’ authenticity and physical condition are carefully checked. We urge the public to report any suspicious activities to the relevant authorities,” the North-West Regional of Cameroon delegate for Public Health concluded.
The tragic incident in Fundong is a stark reminder of the importance of quality drugs in providing effective healthcare. It is up to the authorities and regulatory bodies to take stringent measures to ensure that only quality drugs are sold in the country and to hold those responsible for the illegal importation and distribution of substandard drugs accountable
