Hong Kong's Centre for Health Protection (CHP) reported no new Chikungunya virus cases on Aug. 11, but recent imported cases have raised public concern. Some online retailers are selling rapid test kits for Chikungunya virus. However, the CHP stated that no rapid test products for Chikungunya virus have been certified by international health authorities. Suppliers have been instructed to suspend the sale of these products in HK. The public is advised not to self-test to avoid delays in seeking proper medical treatment.
Investigations by Ta Kung Pao revealed that multiple online stores recently sold Chikungunya rapid test kits. One store offered a kit for HK$28 per box, with free shipping for orders over HK$500, though it has since removed the product. Another store sold a set of five kits for HK$89, claiming that the test could be easily conducted at home with a small blood sample and following the included instructions. As of 9:30 p.m. on Aug. 11, this product was still available for purchase.
Dr. Edwin Tsui, Director of the CHP, emphasized that no rapid test kits for Chikungunya virus available on the market have been certified by international health authorities. The CHP has contacted the manufacturers, who confirmed that these products are not intended for self-testing. Suppliers in HK have been notified to cease sales immediately.
Dr. Tsui urged the public to seek medical attention if they suspect Chikungunya virus infection rather than attempting self-diagnosis, as this could delay proper treatment. He also advised against self-medication.
The Department of Health is aware of HK-based research institutions currently developing the rapid test kit for Chikungunya virus. The department has proactively reached out to the institutions to assess the performance and quality of their products, encouraging them to apply for inclusion in the department's voluntary "Medical Device Administrative Control System" upon successful testing.
In an exclusive interview with Ta Kung Pao, Dr. Ricky Chiu, Chairman and CEO of biotechnology company "Phasescientific," revealed that their team is in the final stages of developing a rapid test kit for Chikungunya virus. The kit, which includes both antibody and antigen tests, is expected to be ready for use in hospitals or clinics within weeks.
According to Dr. Chiu, the accuracy of their product surpasses uncertified kits currently on the market, which may have questionable reliability due to the virus's window period. He assured that their product will meet local standards before being launched.
(Source: Ta Kung Pao; Reporter: Lai Zhenxiong; English Editor: Zoey Sun)
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