MPS president Amrahi Buang said the Medical Device Authority’s (MDA) recent statement – confirming that no influenza self-test kits are registered in Malaysia – means all kits currently sold, including those on social media, are unauthorised for public use.

“Why have such kits not been registered? Is it because no company has applied to import them, or has the government decided not to allow them?” he said in a statement.

“Given Malaysians’ increased awareness and familiarity with self-testing since the Covid-19 pandemic, the introduction of influenza self-test kits would be timely and relevant.

“Influenza spreads faster than Covid-19 and lasts longer. Unlike in temperate countries where influenza is seasonal, in Malaysia it can occur year-round. This further justifies the need for influenza self-test kits.”

Amrahi noted that influenza has claimed lives, including among children, and poses serious risks to the elderly and those with chronic diseases.

He also warned that delayed detection has overwhelmed hospital emergency departments, particularly at government facilities.

Amrahi said community pharmacists are ready to play their part by educating the public on proper self-testing procedures, just as they did during the Covid-19 pandemic.

“Covid-19 self-test kits are still available in about 4,000 community pharmacies nationwide. It is only reasonable for the government to now consider the same for influenza,” he said.

“This would be a proactive and cost-effective step to curb infections.”