14 Mar 2009
A spokesman for the Department of Health (DH) said today (March 14) that laboratory analysis of samples of a total of 359 pharmaceutical products (including Gluformin for diabetics) manufactured by Europharm had indicated no growth of fungus in the products.
The products which were tested include tablets, capsules, powder, syrup, eye drops, cream and ointment. They were supplied to the Hospital Authority (HA), Department of Health and other users.
The spokesman said tests on 39 raw material samples taken from Europharm also yielded negative results for fungus.
"Laboratory test results for the last batch of samples will be available early next week," the spokesman said.
The spokesman said investigation was on going with focus on the results of microbiological tests which could provide a clear picture to facilitate an overall review of the incident.
The spokesman said, based on the findings thus far of the investigation, Europharm would be instructed to conduct a thorough disinfection in its production lines.
The management will also been required to review and streamline its production procedures and enhance quality control measures.
Europharm could resume manufacturing operations only after the improvements made by the company on all its production lines were implemented and tested to the satisfaction of DH, the spokesman said.