Ministry of Health Denies Fake ARV Shortage Alert
Published on September 10, 2025 at 11:46 AM by Evance Kapito
The Ministry of Health has moved swiftly to disassociate itself from a fraudulent press release circulating on social media that warned of a temporary shortage of Antiretroviral drugs (ARVs) in government hospitals.
In an official statement released today, the Ministry labeled the document, which was dated September 10, 2025, and bore a forged signature of Secretary for Health Dr. Samson Mndolo, as “fake and malicious.”
The fake alert claimed the government was managing a temporary disruption in ARV supply but had the situation “under control.” It urged the public to “remain calm and patient.”
The Ministry’s genuine disclaimer categorically denied the claims made in the viral document. Officials reiterated their commitment to the uninterrupted provision of HIV services, pointing citizens back to an earlier, legitimate communication issued in January 2025.
That communication assured the nation of the sustained and reliable availability of ARVs and other HIV services in all public and private health facilities across Malawi.
“The Ministry wishes to remind the public of its earlier communication of January 2025, which assured the sustained provision of HIV services,” the government’s statement read.
It strongly urged Malawians to rely only on information released through its official channels and verified media partners.
Health authorities have condemned the circulation of the fake notice, stating that it unnecessarily causes panic and anxiety among people living with HIV who depend on a consistent supply of life-saving medication.
An investigation into the source of the fraudulent document is believed to be underway. The public is advised to treat the fake ARV shortage alert with caution and disregard its contents entirely.
