Pharmacies frustrated over shortage of Covid-19 self test kits

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Sales rep Eshah Salleh says they run out of Covid-19 self test kits two weeks ago
SHAH ALAM - Is there a shortage of Covid-19 self test kits?

A survey from Sinar Harian at several pharmacies in Shah Alam found customers going home empty handed as pharmacists wait for new stocks from suppliers.

According to a salesperson in Friends Pharmacy, Section 9 here, Eshah Salleh, 57 said the first batch of 100 units of the Longsee brand were sold within a week as more people report of being infected with flu and fever.

Her employers are hoping for the new batch to arrive soon to keep up with the demand.

"Two weeks ago we sold all our Covid self-test kits. We had 100 units sole at RM15 each," she told Sinar Harian.

Due to limited stock, she said each customer are now limited to buy five boxes each.

"It is not only the test kits but panadol too are sold out," she said.

Another salesperson in Multicare Pharmacy, Section 18 here. Amira Shamsudin, 19 said her employers are still waiting for a new batch of kits.

"The demand is high and many are asking when will the new stock arrive," she said.

Meanwhile, a pharmacist from Health Lane who wanted to be known as Alex, 26 said suppliers may be prioritising hotels and clinics, causing delays for new stocks to arrive.

She said they is no word from suppliers on their request for Covid test kits.