CEM REPORT, HEALTH | The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration has issued a public alert on the existence of fake Covid-19 Antigen rapid test kits in circulation.
The agency said it received a communication from Health Canada of the existence of these counterfeit BTNX Incorporated Covid-19 rapid antigen test kits.
NAFDAC in a press release on Sunday noted that these fake test kits were sold online in 25-pack boxes by a distributor called Healthful Plus which does not have the required licence.
Explaining NAFDAC said the packaging of the counterfeit kits looks like the authentic BTNX Inc. Products in colour and typeface and uses the BTNX Incorporated, noting that the device identifier has “COV-19C25”, with several key differences, and then labelled as manufactured by “Health Advance Inc.” Instead of BTNX Inc.
Additionally, NAFDAC stated that on the packaging, Health Advance was identified as the “Official Canadian Distributor of the counterfeit products, pointing out that the products had a claim of endorsement by government authorities, such as Health Canada.
“Genuine COVID-19 Antigen test kit helps detect certain proteins in the virus. Rapid antigen tests are designed to tell in a few minutes whether someone is infected or not.
“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 appealed to wholesalers, distributors, pharmacies, and consumers to ensure that their products are obtained from authentic and reliable sources.
While also encouraging 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.
Furthermore, healthcare providers are advised to prevent the administration of the product to unsuspecting patients, adding that the products’ authenticity and physical condition should be carefully checked.
NAFDAC called on memb6of the public in possession of the counterfeit product should immediately discontinue sale or use and submit stock to the nearest agency office.
The agency in its statement encouraged healthcare providers and consumers to report suspected counterfeit health products to NAFDAC on 0800-162-3322 or email: sf.alert@nafdac.gov.ng.
NAFDAC also advised the public to report adverse effects via pharmacovigilance@nafdac.gov.ng, and e-reporting platforms www.nafdac.gov.ng or via the Med-safety application for dow
