The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) in Nigeria issued a public alert concerning counterfeit and unregistered versions of the VISITECT HIV Advanced Disease Test Kits that are currently in circulation. This warning was disseminated through the agency's X handle as Public Alert No. 011/2026. The alert came after Euro Specs International Nigeria Limited, the official Marketing Authorisation Holder of the product, confirmed reports of these fake kits being sold through unauthorized channels, raising serious health concerns for consumers and healthcare providers alike.

NAFDAC emphasized the importance of the VISITECT CD4 Advanced Disease assay, which is designed to provide rapid and accurate results without the need for complex instrumentation. Specifically, this test identifies patients with severe HIV by measuring CD4 counts in blood samples, offering results within 40 minutes. The assay plays a critical role in resource-limited settings, where timely diagnosis and access to advanced care can significantly impact patient outcomes. Therefore, the circulation of counterfeit versions poses a significant risk to public health, especially among vulnerable populations who might rely on these tests for early diagnosis.

In light of these findings, NAFDAC has called on the public, healthcare providers, and institutions to remain vigilant and ensure that they procure medical supplies from authorized distributors only. The public alert serves not only as a warning about the specific counterfeit tests but also as a broader reminder of the risks associated with unregulated medical products. Ensuring the quality and authenticity of diagnostic tools is paramount in the fight against HIV and in safeguarding overall public health in Nigeria.