India, Jan. 24 -- At least 300 deaths reported so far inThe Gambia, Uzbekistan and Indonesia, most children

The World Health Organization (WHO) has sounded the alarm on substandard and falsified medical products, which have led to the death of at least 300 people, most of them children, in The Gambia, Uzbekistan and Indonesia. It has called for immediate action against the medicines to protect children.

The over-the-counter cough syrups were suspected to be contaminated with diethylene glycol and ethylene glycol. Both are industrial solvents that can be fatal even if taken in small amounts. The Philippines, Timor Leste, Senegal and Cambodia might also be affected.

Read more: WHO alert on 'sub-standard' cough syrups made by Noida firm ...