Health warning over counterfeit condoms

A health warning has been issued after fake condoms were found in a shop.

Packets of "Durexx Gossamer" were seized by trading standards from a shop in Walsall, near Birmingham.

The fakes are copies of a variety of condoms made by the well-known brand Durex.

Shoppers are being warned not to be misled by the extra "x" on the packet as the counterfeits have not passed British safety regulations.

John Beavon, Walsall Council trading standards manager, said: "This is potentially very serious. A brief glance at this packet and people may well be taken in but they are counterfeit.

"A simple check is for people to look for an extra 'x' on the packet. If it says 'Durexx', it's not an innocent misprint - they are fake."

Investigations were launched earlier this month after a complaint from a member of the public. One packet was sent to Durex brand owner SSL International, based in Cambridge, for testing, which revealed they were fake.

Five unsold packets were then seized from the shop.

Mr Beavon said: "Thankfully only a small quantity is involved in this but it does demonstrate that counterfeiters are at work in a whole range of areas. We understand counterfeit condoms have been found in London before.

"We would echo standard health advice given when counterfeit condoms are found, that would urge people who may have used them to contact their local GP or family planning clinic."

Trading standards officers have yet to work out where the condoms have come from, but investigations are continuing.