The Namibia Medicines Regulatory Council has issued an advisory about products containing zinc picolinate and selenium for use in children under 18 years.

This follows a recall in South Africa, where the Health Products Regulatory Authority removed similar products for children due to safety concerns.

The council advises parents and carers to consult healthcare professionals before giving these supplements to children.

Zinc and selenium supplements are classified as Schedule 0 medicines, meaning they can be bought without a prescription.

The NMRC says it will continue to monitor the situation in South Africa and make changes if necessary to protect public health.

Meanwhile, the Ministry of Health's spokesperson, Walters Kamaya, highlighted that products containing zinc picolinate and selenium for use in children under 18 years should be removed from shelves and urged the public to stop using them.