Latest News & Developments
sahpra
Sahpra approves first mpox diagnostic test to enhance global health efforts
South Africa has approved the first mpox diagnostic test, bolstering efforts to improve testing access across the globe.
SIU seeks R33. 4 million from Cuba for unused Interferon alfa-2b drug
The Special Investigating Unit (SIU) is pursuing the recovery of R33. 4 million paid to Cuba for the Interferon alfa-2b drug, which was never used by the Department of Defence, amid allegations of procurement irregularities.
V-Tech urges Sahpra to release vital medication for pets
Sahpra, however, said it has advised V-tech to apply for the relevant license needed while it was awaiting the outcome of an appeal process.
Hawks intercept suspected smuggler with R1. 2 million worth of dagga in KZN
Sechaba Maqhama, 44, was arrested in KwaZulu-Natal for allegedly transporting 67 bags of dagga valued at R1. 2 million. The vehicle he was travelling in was seized and will be referred to the Asset Forfeiture Investigation.
Healthcare company ramps up local antiretroviral production to strengthen South Africa’s healthcare
Viatris announces its new ARV production facility in Isando, Johannesburg, marking a significant milestone in the fight against HIV while supporting South Africa’s economic recovery plan.
Contraceptive pills withdrawn due to packaging error
In light of safety concerns over YAZ PLUS contraceptive pills, the public is urged to check their medication and ensure they are not in possession of the affected batch.
Bulkeng director’s death raises concerns
The sudden death of Bulkeng director Nkosinathi Ndlovu raises questions of foul play amid ongoing investigations into a controversial oxygen tender
Dagga ‘pubs’ spreading in KZN
Confusion around the decriminalisation of dagga has led to some shops openly ‒ but illegally ‒selling it to the public in parts of KwaZulu-Natal. Authorities warn that this is a criminal offence, and offenders could face jail time of between five and 10 years, depending on whether the charge is dealing or possession.
Fake drug danger for SA
ORGANISED crime networks are doing a roaring trade in counterfeit pharmaceutical products smuggled into the country and into the hands of desperate or unsuspecting consumers whose lives could be at risk.
Concern over presence of fentanyl in SA
Fentanyl, which has resulted in more than 100 000 deaths in the US this year alone, has made its way to South Africa, and, due to SA’s high levels of opioid use and dependence, it poses a threat.
KZN man dies from mpox, four infected
The 38-year-old from KZN who died on the same day he received the results that he tested positive, is the country’s second mpox death.
Department of Health intensifies efforts against the Mpox outbreak
As of now, South Africa has recorded five confirmed Mpox cases and one death. Two of these cases are in Gauteng and three in KwaZulu-Natal. The death occurred in Tembisa Hospital on June 10, 2024, involving one of the two Gauteng patients.
Health Minister Joe Phaahla confirms mpox disease cases
Five cases of mpox, one death in South Africa
No traces of diethylene glycol found in Benylin - SAHPRA
There was no record of any adverse drug reactions relating to diethylene glycol for the two recalled batches of the paediatric syrup.
Sahpra clears Benylin paediatric cough syrup after recall over ‘toxic chemical’ fears
The South African Health Products Regulatory Authority (Sahpra) says no traces of diethylene glycol have been found in any of the recalled batches of Benylin paediatric syrup.
SAHPRA recalls two batches of Benylin Paediatric Syrup
Two batches of Benylin Paediatric Syrup have been recalled by SAHPRA after reports that the syrup had high levels of toxic diethylane glycol.
Joint co-operation between Sahpra and Zimbabwe’s medicine control authority to enable efficient access to health products
The memorandum of understanding between Sahpra and MCAZ is said to allow the regulators to develop a co-operative partnership towards ensuring access to safe, quality, and effective health products in the two countries.
Fungal infections linked to medical lube
A medical grade lube has been recalled after it was linked to a rise in fungal infections across South Africa.
Drive to recall suspect medical lube
The department said it was also working to ensure that all unopened lubricant sachets or batches are returned through the usual distribution channels.
Swabs and earbuds: man objects to DNA airport kit interception
He was informed by the courier company that customs only allowed 14 days to clear goods once a shipment arrived in South Africa.
Bird flu poses food security threat if not managed successfully
The Department of Agriculture, South African Health Products Regulatory Authority and the industry are exploring applications for the registration of possible vaccines.
Health Minister confirms 27 million doses of Covid-19 vaccines were destroyed
The minister said the estimated monetary value of vaccines to be written off was R3. 8 billion, which was made up of R2 501 583 564 of Janssen vaccine and R 1 328 606 043 of the Pfizer vaccine.
Ex-SAHPRA employee in hot water over medical cannabis licence scam
Pam Mohlabe, a former employee of the South African Health Products Regulatory Authority, is under investigation for still posing as an employee and issuing medical cannabis licences despite getting fired in 2021.
WATCH: SA doctor’s warning against withdrawn pholcodine-containing medicine comes as shocking news to parents
Dr Vonlugwig, a general practitioner in Polokwane, issued a public service announcement to consumers, warning them against using Pholtex Junior, a popular cough medicine in South Africa.
UWC alumnus celebrates official release of a locally-produced Covid-19 antigen home test
A University of the Western Cape (UWC) alumnus and scientist is celebrating the official release of the first locally manufactured Covid-19 antigen test in Africa into the South African and African pharmaceutical markets.