The Medicines Control Authority of Zimbabwe (MCAZ) has issued a warning to social media influencers, celebrities and the public about the dangers of promoting unauthorized medicines online. This move comes amid a surge in illegal advertisements on platforms like Facebook, WhatsApp and X (formerly Twitter). MCAZ Director-General Richard Rukwata expressed concern over the growing trend, citing significant public health risks and violations of the Medicines and Allied Substances Control Act.
Rukwata highlighted red flags to watch out for, including promises of instant results, 100% cure rates and miracle fixes for serious conditions like diabetes and cancer. He emphasized that products sounding too good to be true are likely scams. MCAZ is urging influencers to stop endorsing unverified products and collaborating with authorities to take action against offenders.
To ensure public safety, MCAZ encourages consumers to verify medicine registration numbers on their website and report suspicious advertisements. By working together, MCAZ aims to ensure that only safe and authorized medicines reach the public. This effort is crucial in Zimbabwe, where social media influencers have significant impact on society, particularly among the younger generation.
In recent years, social media influencers have become key players in shaping public opinion and purchasing decisions. While they can positively impact society by promoting valuable content and raising awareness about important issues, they also have the potential to spread misinformation and promote unhealthy behaviors
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