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Health alert issued for former patients of Sydney dentist
New South Wales health officials have urged thousands of patients treated by a retired dentist in western Sydney to undergo testing for bloodborne viruses after uncovering poor infection control practices at his clinic.
Exposure risk and health ministry response
The state health ministry announced on Wednesday that patients of Dr. William Tam, who operated a clinic in Strathfield, may have been exposed to hepatitis B, hepatitis C, and HIV. While authorities described the risk as low, they emphasized the need for testing due to the potential for long-term health consequences.
"The poor infection control practices at Dr. Tam's practice means all former patients may be at low risk of a bloodborne virus infection, which can have serious and long-lasting health impacts,"
Dr. Leena Gupta, Public Health Clinical Director, Sydney Local Health District
Gupta noted that infections like HIV and hepatitis can remain asymptomatic for decades, making early detection and treatment critical.
No records to trace patients
Health officials estimate Tam treated thousands of patients over 25 years, but lack records to contact them directly. Tam, now retired and deregistered, has not been available for comment.
Audit reveals hygiene failures
An inspection of Tam's clinic in April uncovered inadequate sterilization of equipment and substandard cleaning practices, according to Dr. Zeina Najjar, a staff specialist with the Sydney Local Health District. Local media reported Tam retired two weeks after the audit.
Pattern of dental clinic concerns
This is not the first instance of viral exposure risks linked to dental clinics in New South Wales. In 2018, 10,000 patients in Sydney were advised to test for HIV and hepatitis following a similar incident in Haberfield. Last October, another clinic in Mortdale faced scrutiny after a dentist was barred for breaching infection control standards.
What patients should do
Former patients of Dr. Tam's clinic are advised to consult a doctor for blood tests. Health authorities have not specified a deadline but urge prompt action to mitigate potential risks.
