DRAP Warns of Serious Risks From Fake Flu Vaccines

Notably, the Drug Regulatory Authority of Pakistan (DRAP) has issued alerts over counterfeit influenza vaccines being supplied in the country under the names of two multinational brands, Influvac Tetra and Vaxigrip Tetra.

Key points

• According to DRAP, Vaxigrip Tetra batch Y4B34 is counterfeit and was never officially imported into Pakistan.
• Fake Influvac Tetra vaccines from batch P13 have additionally been identified in Lahore.
• Abbott Laboratories and Sanofi Winthrop, the firms whose names appear on the packaging, have confirmed that the vaccines are fake.
• DRAP has issued separate rapid alerts for Vaxigrip Tetra and Influvac Tetra.
• The alert comes days after reports that Pakistan is facing a shortage of flu vaccines.

According to DRAP, Vaxigrip Tetra batch Y4B34 is counterfeit and was never officially imported into Pakistan. As the manufacturer, its packaging lists Sanofi Winthrop, France. Sanofi's local distributor was the first to alert authorities.

Fake Influvac Tetra vaccines from batch P13 have additionally been identified in Lahore. Their packaging lists Abbott Biologicals, Netherlands.

In practice, the regulator cautioned that the quality, efficacy, and safety of these vaccines are unknown and that their apply may pose serious safety and quality risks to public health. It pressed doctors not to prescribe them.

Doctors, distributors, and pharmacies have been informed to report any suspected fake vaccines to DRAP immediately. Citizens have been asked to report any side effects to the National Pharmacovigilance Centre (NPC). Provinces Informed to Seize Stock.

DRAP has additionally directed provincial authorities to take emergency measures to stop the supply chain, trace the source of the counterfeit vaccines, and confiscate the affected batches.

For context, the alert comes days after reports that Pakistan is facing a shortage of flu vaccines. Last month, DRAP additionally cautioned against life-threatening fake medicines. Stay Connected with ProPakistani. Obtain the latest news and stories wherever you prefer. Follow on Google Discover. Follow on Google News Join WhatsApp. See more ProPakistani stories in Google Search and Top Stories.

In short, DRAP Warns of Serious Risks From Fake Flu Vaccines is the central thread here, and readers can expect follow-up reporting as the picture becomes clearer.