WHO confirms fake Covishield vaccines in Myanmar; urges more vigilance in supply chains

World Health Organisation (WHO) on Thursday released pictures of fake Covishield vaccines found in Myanmar. genuine Covishield producer (Serum Institute of India Pvt. Ltd.) has confirmed that items mentioned in alert were fake, WHO informed. 

WHO has recommended Covishield vaccine for active vaccination of those aged 18 and above against SARS-CoV-2 virus, which causes COVID-19. WHO said in a statement that official guidelines from national regulatory agencies should be followed while using auntic COVID-19 vaccines.

'Falsified products reported in Uganda, India, and Myanmar'

WHO noted, "This WHO Medical Product Alert refers to falsified COVISHIELD (ChOx1 nCoV-19 Corona Virus Vaccines (Recombinant) identified in WHO African Region, and WHO South-East Asia Region. falsified products were reported to WHO in July and August 2021. genuine manufacturer of COVISHIELD (Serum Institute of India Pvt. Ltd.) has confirmed that products listed in this alert are falsified. se falsified products have been reported at patient level in Uganda, India and Myanmar."

According to World Health Organisation, following products have been validated as being fabricated because y intentionally misrepresent ir identity, composition, or source:

1. Batch 4121Z040 - expiry date (10.08.2021) on this product is falsified
2. COVISHIELD 2ml - genuine manufacturer does not produce COVISHIELD in 2ml (4 doses).
3. Batch 4126Z079 - batch number on this product is falsified and product name: COVISHELD is  not correct spelling 

WHO urges for heightened vigilance 

WHO urged heightened vigilance in supply chains of nations and areas that are likely to be impacted by se forged goods. Hospitals, clinics, health centres, wholesalers, distributors, pharmacies, and or medical goods suppliers were asked to remain on high alert.

world healht body said, "WHO requests increased vigilance within supply chains of countries and regions likely to be affected by se falsified products. Increased vigilance should include hospitals, clinics, health centers, wholesalers, distributors, pharmacies, and any or suppliers of medical products."

organisation also mentioned that all medical supplies must be purchased from approved and authorised vendors and legitimacy and physical quality of merchandise should be thoroughly examined. "If you're unsure, see a healthcare expert. Please do not utilise any of above-mentioned goods if you have m," WHO emphasised.

National regulatory and health authorities were vised to immediately notify WHO if fraudulent items are identified in ir respective countries.

(Image: PTI)