The regulator pointed out that some online marketers might be trying to take advantage of consumer concerns on the mosquito-borne virus. Its letters warned the recipients that Zika protection claims should be backed by competent, as well as, reliable scientific proof through a well-controlled human clinical testing.
According to the FTC, the products of concern included wristbands, patches and stickers, which reportedly could repel the mosquitos carrying Zika or otherwise protect users from the virus. Aside from the warning, the regulator wanted the claimants to review the claims that they were making for their products and advised them to delete them immediately if they were not able to provide enough scientific evidence.
The FTC letters wanted the recipients to get back to them within 48 hours giving details of actions taken.
Earlier, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in the United States issued travel guidance in January on affected countries. This included the use of enhanced precautions and guidelines for pregnant women. The outbreak of the disease commenced early last year in Brazil and spread to other parts of South and North America.
However, there are three other companies, namely, Cerus Corporation CERS, Intrexon Corp XON and Inovio Pharmaceuticals Inc INO, that have shown ways to fight or prevent Zika virus. These shares have advanced 14.78 percent, 10.89 percent and 43.68 percent, respectively, in the current month. Do you have ideas for articles/interviews you'd like to see more of on Benzinga? Please email feedback@benzinga.com with your best article ideas. One person will be randomly selected to win a $20 Amazon gift card!
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