‘Avoid home DNA test kit!’ Government warns Kenyans.

The Pharmacy and Poisons Board (PPB) has warned Kenyans against using the home DNA test kits currently being sold across pharmacies.In a statement shared via their official social media handles, the government agency cautioned that it had not authorised the sale of the aforementioned kits.

“It has been brought to the attention of the Pharmacy and Poisons Board (PPB) that unauthorised home DNA test kits are being marketed on digital platforms for retail in the Kenyan market,” the statement reads in parts.

“Please note that the PPB has not authorised any retailer to sell such kits and hereby appeals to the public to be on the lookout for retailers marketing these Kits,”

Further, the agency implored Kenyans to confirm and verify accredited medical devices approved for use and subsequently urged Kenyans to report any retailer selling unapproved medical devices.

“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 statement added.

Last week social media was left awash with reactions from quarters over the home DNA test kits.The kits which were expected to cost Ksh800 made headlines as men expressed interest in verifying the paternity of their children.

The kit is used to collect the genetic information which has to be analysed in a laboratory to get comprehensive details one is seeking – be it paternity, maternity etc.Most facilities offering professional DNA tests charge between Ksh10,000 to Ksh30,000 per person for genetic testing services.

Article By Suzy Nyongesa.