Bogus Covid-19 self-test kits: MMA demands sterner scrutiny

KUALA LUMPUR – With a growing number of Covid-19 self-test kits being sold online, the Malaysian Medical Association (MMA) has urged authorities for stricter regulation after multiple claims of the sale of unapproved or fake products.

Its president Datuk Dr M. Subramaniam said MMA has noted unauthorised sellers advertising and selling these kits directly to customers via social media platforms.

As such, he said that the authorities must monitor the situation and investigate claims of bogus test kits. He expressed his concern over public health and safety.

“Some of these sellers are even claiming their self-test kits have an accuracy of 99% without disclosing the brand of their product,” he said in a statement today.

“It is indeed worrying as the public can be easily duped into purchasing self-test kits that are fake or are of compromised quality.

“Stricter regulation is needed as certain quarters may be taking advantage of the pandemic as well as the fear among the public.”

MMA’s statement follows a similar call made by the Malaysian Pharmacists Society last week urging government intervention to protect buyers amid rampant sales of fake self-test kits by unauthorised sellers.

To further ensure safety, Dr Subramaniam said all importers of approved Covid-19 self-test kits must also conform with the Good Distribution Practice for Medical Devices as stated in the Medical Devices Act 2012.

On the customer’s part, Dr Subramaniam said they should only purchase kits that are approved by the Medical Device Authority (MDA), warning of the health risks posed by the use of fake products.

“It is important therefore that (members of) the public ensure they check the approved list of self-test kits on MDA’s website before making a purchase, and only purchase the kits from authorised sellers.

“The Health Ministry had announced that only healthcare facilities and pharmacies are allowed to sell the Covid-19 saliva-based self-test kits. Currently, only 12 kits have been approved by the MDA,” he added. – The Vibes, August 24, 2021