Government warns Kenyans against Ksh800 home DNA Kits
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Home DNA Kits hit the headlines in the course of the week as Kenyans aired divergent views over the emergence of the new technology
Home DNA Kits hit the headlines in the course of the week as Kenyans aired divergent views over the emergence of the new technology.
Kenyans have been warned by the Pharmacy and Poisons Board (PPB) not to use DNA sample testing kits that are available for purchase.
The government agency made it clear in a statement dated January 12 that it had not granted permission to any organizations—local or foreign—to market or sell the kits in the country.
“It has been brought to the attention of the Pharmacy and Poisons Board (PPB) that unauthorized home DNA test kits are being marketed on digital platforms for retail in the Kenyan market.
“Please note that the PPB has not authorized any retailer to sell such kits and hereby appeals to the public to be on the lookout for retailers marketing these Kits,” read the statement in part.
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According to a number of reports, the home testing kits were being offered for Ksh800 on overseas retail websites.
Kenyans were also advised to check the board’s website to confirm accredited medical services that had been authorized for use throughout the nation.
“Consumers are encouraged to report to the PPB in case they come across any retailer selling related products via the board’s email address,” the board stated.
The Ksh800 kit made headlines throughout the week as Kenyans expressed contrasting opinions about the emergence of the new technology.
Online users had expressed concerns about the kits, stating that they might lead to domestic strife in families.
Medical professionals weighed in on the internet discussion by stating that the kits were just intended for the collection of samples and not for real testing.
“For the actual DNA test, the sample collected has to be mailed/shipped to the lab where the lab testing fee is a minimum of Ksh15,000.
“The home DNA test kit is just the sample collection kit (swab),” Consultant Pathologist Ahmed Kalebi clarified.
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