Kerala Govt doctor booked over allegedly prescribing paracetamol overdose to 6-month-old

Aluva: A government doctor at District Government Hospital in Kerala’s Aluva has been booked after allegedly prescribing an overdose of paracetamol to a six-month-old infant following vaccination.

The Aluva police registered the case against a doctor based on the complaint filed by the infant's father on Saturday.

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According to news reports, the infant had received a vaccination at the hospital in April. To manage possible fever after immunisation, the doctor allegedly prescribed liquid paracetamol, but the family claimed that the quantity prescribed was higher than the recommended dosage for an infant of that age and weight.

Paracetamol is commonly advised for babies after vaccination to reduce fever and discomfort. However, medical experts caution that the dosage must be carefully calculated based on the child’s weight and age, as an incorrect amount can cause harmful effects.

Following the administration of the medicine, the infant’s condition reportedly worsened, and the child was admitted to a private hospital in Aluva. The baby remained hospitalised for five days, with the family alleging that they spent around Rs 80,000 on treatment.

Speaking to Hindustan Times, police said a case has been registered under Section 125(a) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita for negligent act endangering human life or personal safety. Officials said the investigation would include an examination of the child's medical records with the assistance of medical experts. The doctor's statement will also be recorded as part of the probe, they added.

Medical Dialogues had previously reported that following the death of an 18-month-old boy who allegedly developed severe complications after being administered anaesthesia for a lip injury, the Payyannur Police have booked a private hospital anaesthetist on charges of medical negligence.

The case has brought renewed attention to the importance of strict medical safety measures while treating infants and young children.

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