The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) have begun issuing warnings to companies who are attempting to fraudulently profit from the swine flu pandemic. As people around the world panic, and H1N1 vaccine shortages prevent even the high risk populations from getting the swine flu shot, advertisements for flu treatments, H1N1 cures, and even home immunizations are a hot item.
Risks of Fake Swine Flu Cures
Products offering a swine flu cure are all over the Internet. While many of the products may be a simple placebo, working on the belief of customers to make them feel better, these products are unregulated. Ingredients and suggestions may be dangerous, and can result in a lack of essential medical care, which is dangerous in a potentially fatal condition such as the swine flu. In addition, a false sense of security may lead people using these items to expose themselves to the swine flu, thinking that they are protected.
H1N1 Vaccine Shortages Produce Market Shortage
The H1N1 vaccine shortages result in more than just long lines and early closings at the local vaccine clinic. Whenever there is more demand than supply, the market produces alternatives. In some cases, legitimate products are sold at premium prices on the "black market." In this case, however, the products and services being promoted have not been evaluated or approved by the FDA, and may even be dangerous.
FDA Lists Fraudulent Swine Flu Products
Most swine flu products have been hastily put together in order to be marketed for a profit. If a product promises a cure for the swine flu, or protection from infection, it may be fraudulent. Before purchasing any product to deal with H1N1 symptoms, consumers should check with a physician or pharmacist. Consumers can also check the list of products that the FDA has already identified as fraudulent.
Reporting Fake H1N1 Cures
The FDA also provides a means to report fraudulent swine flu products that are not yet found on the list. Consumers provide the FDA with the information requested by the webform on the FDA website after being victimized, or in the event that they see a questionable product. At this point, the FDA is able to investigate, and prevent future consumers from being victimized.
Alternative Swine Flu Vaccine
While there is a debate about the safety of the H1N1 vaccine, the alternatives available from various sources on the Internet are completely unregulated. The ingredients in each of the approved swine flu vaccines are available for consumer viewing. An unregulated product may or may not accurately report ingredients. While the testing on the approved H1N1 vaccines has not been extensive, alternative products have not been tested with any scientific studies.
References:
U.S. Food and Drug Administration
U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
Victoria Nicks - Victoria Nicks has a Master's Degree in IT, and extensive hands-on experience with various types of hardware and software.
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