Scam alert: Do not buy COVID-19 vaccines online, Health Canada warns

 

Health Canada is warning of a scam that involves the sale of COVID-19 vaccines over the internet.

In a notice posted to the agency's website, Canadians are urged not to buy COVID-19 vaccines sold on the internet or from unauthorized sources because they are counterfeit.

"Counterfeit COVID-19 vaccines may pose serious health risks, and are ineffective at protecting an individual from the COVID-19 virus," the notice said.

"COVID-19 vaccines have a tightly-controlled supply chain, and will only be provided through clinics organized or endorsed by your local public health authority."

As of Feb. 3, 2021, there are just two vaccines approved for use in Canada: Pfizer-BioNTech and Moderna.

There are several others currently under review by Canada's health authorities.

Health Canada advises Canadians to:

• Not buy or use COVID-19 vaccines sold on the internet or from unauthorized sources as they are counterfeit, may pose risks to health, and are ineffective at protecting an individual from the COVID-19 virus.
• The only way to access safe and effective COVID-19 vaccines is through clinics organized or endorsed by your local public health authority, in collaboration with Canada's federal, provincial and territorial governments.
• Consult a healthcare professional if you have any concerns about the COVID-19 vaccine.
• Report any information on the sale or advertising of potential counterfeit COVID-19 vaccines to Health Canada
• Visit reliable and trusted sources of information, like the Government of Canada's websites Canada.ca/vaccines and Canada.ca/coronavirus, and your local public health authority's website.
• Report any health product adverse events to Health Canada