Safety alert on Accu-Chek Performa test strips (with photo)

     The Department of Health (DH) today (July 22) drew public attention to a safety alert (www.accu-chek.com.hk/important-information-on-accu-chek-performa-test-strips) issued by local supplier Roche Diagnostics (Hong Kong) Limited (Roche) concerning its product Accu-Chek Performa test strips which is not listed under the voluntary Medical Device Administrative Control System administered by the DH.
 
     According to the information provided by Roche, there is a possibility that the test strip vials were opened while still in the sealed carton, exposing the strips to humidity which damages them. This may result in inaccurate measurement on user's blood-glucose meter and might lead to a diabetic patient managed inappropriately.
 
     Users are advised to first inspect the product and not to use it if the vial is open or damaged. The local supplier will arrange replacements for affected users who have open or damaged vials within the sealed carton.
 
     According to the local supplier, around 150 000 packages of test strips have been distributed to public hospitals, private hospitals, clinics and chain stores. The affected organisations will be notified by the local supplier accordingly.
 
     The local supplier has set up a hotline (2485 7512) to answer customer enquiries during office hours.