The activewear company Lorna Jane has been slammed with a fine of $39,960 by the Australian Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA).
The company claimed that its LJ Shield technology could “protect and prevent” people from COVID-19.
Doctors said that the company was “exploiting” the fear of the people by marketing their clothing line in such a manner.
The Therapeutic Goods Admin Media Release states that, “this kind of advertising could have detrimental consequences for the Australian community, creating a false sense of security, and leading people to be less vigilant” about the ongoing pandemic.
According to the company’s website, “it is applied as a water-based, non-toxic mist and permanently adheres to our garments. Any bacteria that comes in contact with the fabric is terminated when in contact with the LJ Shield particles.”
Medical experts confirmed that the fabric cannot protect the wearer against COVID-19.
COVID-19 is caused by a virus called SARS-CoV-2, not a bacteria. According to WHO, it is an infectious disease caused by a newly discovered coronavirus.
According to TGA, 1989, any type of COVID-19 reference in the marketing or promotional strategy for a product will be restricted.
Read how you could protect yourself from COVID-19 here.
Image source: Current Affairs