One of the primary tools we have to combat COVID-19 in any form is testing. Therefore, it is important that we are able to trust our test results. As tests become more difficult to find, a number of shady companies have stepped up to provide testing products that either aren’t approved or else which don’t work at all.
Fortunately, the FDA provides a list of both approved and unapproved products. The approved product page has a list of 43 testing related products as well as a search box so that you can more easily find the one you’re looking for. Many of these are not products you would use at home. For example there is the “VITROS Immunodiagnostic Products SARS-CoV-2 Antigen Reagent Pack” which is clearly for lab use as it can “can run up to 130 tests per hour and is able to detect SARS-CoV-2 infection in individuals who do not report any symptoms.” In my case, I bought some tests on Amazon BEFORE checking to ensure that they were legit. I thought I recognized the brand name, and luckily I was right.
Here's what the database looks like:
There is, unfortunately, a growing list of unapproved products. which also includes masks that claim to be N95, but are not, antiseptic products of questionable worth, and so on. Again, you can search for your product in case you are concerned.
The FDA provides some guidelines for identifying fraudulent tests which we've listed below.
Here are some tips to identify false or misleading claims.
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Be suspicious of products that claim to treat a wide range of diseases.
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Personal testimonials are no substitute for scientific evidence.
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Few diseases or conditions can be treated quickly, so be suspicious of any therapy claimed as a “quick fix.”
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If it seems too good to be true, it probably is.
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“Miracle cures,” which claim scientific breakthroughs or contain secret ingredients, are likely a hoax.