NAFDAC alerts Nigerians on existence of fake COVID-19 test kits
The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has notified Nigerians about counterfeit Covid-19 Antigen rapid test kits.
NAFDAC notified Nigerians of the test kits in a public alert released to journalists on Sunday in Abuja.
The counterfeit BTNX Incorporated COVID-19 rapid antigen test kits were communicated to NAFDAC by Health Canada.
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NAFDAC quoted Health Canada as saying that the fake test kits were sold online in 25-pack boxes by a distributor called Healthful Plus, who did not have the required licence.
NAFDAC said the packaging of the counterfeit kits resembles the authentic BTNX Inc. products in colour and typeface and uses the BTNX Incorporated.
It said that the device identifier has “COV-19C25” but has several key differences, adding that it was labelled as manufactured by “Health Advance Inc.” instead of BTNX Inc.
NAFDAC stated that Health Advance was identified as the “Official Canadian Distributor of the counterfeit products on the packaging.
It pointed out that the products had a claim of endorsement by government authorities, such as Health Canada.
“Genuine COVID-19 Antigen test kit helps detect specific proteins in the virus. Rapid antigen tests are designed to tell in a few minutes whether someone is infected.
“It is recommended as a high-performing test for individuals with symptoms, high-risk populations and healthcare or casual workers.
“Counterfeit health products are imitations of authentic products. The safety and effectiveness of these counterfeit test kits have not been assessed.
“The genuine manufacturer BTNX Inc. has confirmed that the devices were counterfeit,” NAFDAC said.
The agency advised wholesalers, distributors, pharmacies and consumers to ensure their products are obtained from authentic and reliable sources.
It also encouraged healthcare providers to Increase vigilance within the supply chain to avoid the importation, distribution, sale or use of counterfeit COVID-19 rapid antigen test kits.
