Counterfeit condoms are rampant in the U.K. Should we be worried in the U.S??

(L)Counterfeit (R)Authentic

By: Alex Temple - MSTv

Cheaply made and unsafe counterfeit condoms, primarily under the Durex company label, have been popping up strongly in the United Kingdom.  As of now, no particular location of the knock-offs location has been found. 

The imitations have been proven and tested not to protect users from STD's or unwanted pregnancy.  However, with the problem running rampent in Great Britain, should U.S citizens be on alert?  
The following excerpt comes from BBC WorldNews:

The government's health regulator has warned there are a rising number of counterfeit condoms being smuggled into to the UK.

The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulation Agency (MHRA) claims millions have been illegally imported in the last 18 months.

Family planning experts say the bogus condoms don't provide protection against STIs or pregnancy.

Tests carried out on many of the fakes show they have a high burst rate.

Senior investigator Danny Lee-Frost said: "These products are made in the Far East for pennies and then sold over here for pounds.

"They will cut corners. They will cut costs. They will use cheaper ingredients and materials."

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Examples of fake condoms

He says the condoms are mainly being found on sale in corner shops, newsagents and market stalls.

He said: "It's vital that people buy condoms from well-known reputable retailers and pharmacies."

In August 2012 £1.5m worth of counterfeit condoms were seized at Heathrow Airport. A similar haul was discovered in Yorkshire.

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Counterfeiters have managed to copy major brands like Durex to convince people.

Danny Lee-Frost admitted: "They certainly look the part. Many people would think it's the proper article."

He says the best way to avoid being caught out is to make sure you buy condoms from reliable places.

"If you're not buying it from a reputable source, it's odds on that it is counterfeit and you shouldn't go anywhere near it."

With this situation running strong in the U.K., are you worried this problem could work its way to the U.S.?  Is it possible that the condom you regularly use might be counterfeit?

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