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NAFDAC notifies Nigerians on fake  COVID-19 test kits in circulation

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The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has brought to the attention of Nigerians that counterfeit gen COVID-19 Antigen rapid test kits are currently in circulation.

The notification was contained in a NAFDAC public alert released to newsmen on Sunday,December 18th,in Abuja.

The counterfeit BTNX Incorporated COVID-19 rapid antigen test kits were brought to the attention of NAFDAC by Health Canada.

NAFDAC quoted Health Canada as saying that the fake test kits were being  sold online in 25-pack boxes by a distributor called Healthful Plus who did not have the required licence to be selling the kit. 

NAFDAC said the packaging of the counterfeit kits copied that of the authentic BTNX Inc. products in colour and typeface and uses the BTNX Incorporated logo. 

It said that the device identifier has “COV-19C25”, but also has several key differences, adding that it was labelled as manufactured by “Health Advance Inc.” instead of BTNX Inc. which was the key difference in the products. 

NAFDAC stated that on the packaging Health Advance was identified as the “Official Canadian Distributor of the counterfeit products.”

It pointed out that the products had laid claim to an 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 said.

The agency advised wholesalers, distributors, pharmacies and consumers to be more careful and ensure that their products are obtained from authentic and reliable sources.

It also encouraged healthcare providers to Increase vigilance within the supply chain to avoid importation, distribution, sale or use of the counterfeit COVID-19 rapid antigen test kits.

It advised healthcare providers to prevent the administration of the product to unsuspecting patients, adding that the products’ authenticity and physical condition should be carefully checked because it might lead to infections. 

NAFDAC said that anybody in possession of the counterfeit product should immediately discontinue sale or use and submit the stock to the nearest agency office.

Healthcare providers and consumers are encouraged to report suspected counterfeit health products to NAFDAC on 0800-162-3322 or email: [email protected].

NAFDAC also advised the public to report adverse effects via [email protected], and e-reporting platforms www.nafdac.gov.ng or via the Med- safety application for download.

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