The FDA has issued a warning about recalled COVID-19 tests due to a bacterial contamination.
The Food and Drug Administration safety warning is against the use of certain recalled at-home COVID-19 tests.
The Pilot tests, distributed by Roche diagnostics, may have bacterial contamination in the liquid solution in the test kits. Direct contact with the liquid could pose a safety concern. None of the impacted tests were distributed through the government’s free test program.
The FDA and Roche Diagnostics are working together to determine how many were sold to consumers.
You can learn more at the FDA website, including impacted lot numbers from the recall.
Around 500,000 of the recalled tests were distributed to CVS Health, and around 16,000 went to Amazon.
The FDA is advising people with tests bearing the above lot numbers to throw the whole test kit in the “household trash” and not to pour the liquid down the drain. If the liquid comes into contact with your skin or eyes, you should thoroughly flush with lots of water.
The FDA also urges people to watch for signs of bacterial infection, such as fever, discharge, red eyes or other potential symptoms. If signs emerge, get medical attention.
Anyone with questions can email the Division of Industry and Consumer Education (DICE) at DICE@FDA.HHS.GOV or call 800-638-2041 or 301-796-7100.
