Merit Medical Cultura Collection and Transport System, 3 mL Viral Transport Medium, Ref: VCTS100,...
FDA Device Recall #Z-0456-2021 — Class II — September 16, 2020
Recall Summary
| Recall Number | Z-0456-2021 |
| Classification | Class II — Moderate risk |
| Date Initiated | September 16, 2020 |
| Status | Terminated |
| Voluntary | Voluntary: Firm initiated |
Recalling Firm
| Firm | Merit Medical Systems, Inc. |
| Location | South Jordan, UT |
| Product Type | Devices |
| Quantity | 371,528 units |
Product Description
Merit Medical Cultura Collection and Transport System, 3 mL Viral Transport Medium, Ref: VCTS100, Single Use, IVD, for the following unit counts: 1 Unit - (01)00884450499917, 50 Units - (01)10884450499914, 200 units - (01)20884450499911
Reason for Recall
The flocked tip of the 100mm swab may break off in the nasophyaryngeal cavity during sample collection. This could result in soft tissue injury of the nasophyaryngeal cavity or a delay in treatment.
Distribution Pattern
Worldwide distribution. US Nationwide, Australia, Canada, Colombia, Ghana, Ireland, Jamaica, Kenya, Panama, Qatar, Trinidad and Tobago.
Lot / Code Information
All Lots distributed prior to August 28, 2020. 1 Unit - (01)00884450499917, 50 Units - (01)10884450499914, 200 units - (01)20884450499911
Other Recalls from Merit Medical Systems, Inc.
| Recall # | Classification | Product | Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| Z-1578-2026 | Class I | DuraMax Chronic Hemodialysis Catheter, REF: H78... | Feb 13, 2026 |
| Z-1576-2026 | Class I | ProGuide Chronic Dialysis Catheters, REF: DC014... | Feb 13, 2026 |
| Z-1577-2026 | Class I | 16F Dual Valved Splittable Sheath Introducer (b... | Feb 13, 2026 |
| Z-1575-2026 | Class I | CentrosFLO Hemodialysis Catheters, REF: CENFP15... | Feb 13, 2026 |
| Z-1579-2026 | Class I | BioFlo DuraMax Catheter, REF: H965103028011/A, ... | Feb 13, 2026 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Contact your healthcare provider and the device manufacturer immediately. Check whether your specific model number and lot number are included in the recall scope. For external devices, stop using the affected product and arrange a replacement. For implanted devices, do not panic — removal is typically not required unless the risk assessment clearly indicates it. Your physician will guide you based on your individual clinical situation and the FDA's recommended actions. Report any adverse effects you may have experienced to FDA MedWatch at 1-800-FDA-1088.
Class I recalls indicate a reasonable probability of serious adverse health consequences or death from the defect. Class II recalls involve products that may cause temporary or medically reversible adverse health consequences, or where serious consequences are remote. Class III recalls cover products not likely to cause any adverse health consequences, typically involving technical regulatory violations. The classification guides urgency — Class I recalls require immediate action, while Class III may simply involve returning a product or acknowledging a labeling change. Always read the specific recall notice for recommended patient actions.
Report problems with medical devices to the FDA through MedWatch at 1-800-FDA-1088 or online at FDA.gov/safety/medwatch. Healthcare facilities are required by law to report device-related serious injuries and deaths. Patients and consumers can also report voluntarily. Include the device name, manufacturer, model number, and a description of the problem and any patient outcome. Reports from patients and clinicians help the FDA identify emerging safety signals and may trigger investigations that lead to recalls of dangerous devices.
What Should You Do?
Stop using this device if you are affected by this recall. Contact your healthcare provider and the manufacturer immediately for guidance. Report adverse events to FDA MedWatch.