NO SELF-TEST KITS APPROVED FOR INFLUENZA APPROVED, PUBLIC URGED TO SEEK MEDICAL TREATMENTI - HEALTH MINISTER

PUTRAJAYA, Nov 1 (Bernama) -- Individuals showing symptoms of influenza are advised to seek immediate medical attention at clinics or hospitals, as there is currently no policy permitting the use of self-testing kits for the disease, said Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad.

He explained that patients must undergo proper examination and receive treatment from qualified medical professionals, as influenza test kits are not approved or sold for public use.

“If you have symptoms, I urge you to seek medical care immediately. Do not purchase or use test kits because they are unnecessary. We do not have a self-testing policy,” he told reporters after opening the 2nd National Conference for Thalassemia Patients and Caregivers 2025 today.

bootstrap slideshow

Commenting on claims of illegal sales of influenza test kits, Dr Dzulkefly said he would look into the matter and discuss it with relevant officials at the ministry.

“This issue is important because no party should take advantage of selling fake or unapproved kits. I will definitely follow up on this,” he said.

Yesterday, the Medical Devices Authority (MDA) issued an advisory urging healthcare professionals not to purchase influenza test kits from e-commerce platforms, even if the products appear legitimate or registered.

According to the MDA, influenza test kits should only be obtained from licensed pharmacies or through the official online platforms of registered manufacturers to ensure compliance with current safety and regulatory standards.

-- BERNAMA