Contaminated syringes utilized for six years at an Ontario clinic; health department issues a cautionary advisory
In a concerning development, Halton Region Public Health has issued a notice about a potential exposure to blood-borne infections at Halton Family Health Centre Walk-in Clinic, located west of Toronto. The issue, spanning more than six years from an unspecified date to July 17, 2025, involves the use of unsterile needles during local anesthetic procedures.
The affected procedures include stitches, IUD insertions, skin biopsies, removing lumps, and joint injections. The public health unit urges patients who visited the clinic during the designated time period to get tested for hepatitis B, hepatitis C, and HIV as a precautionary measure, despite the low risk of transmission.
Dr. Deepika Lobo, the medical officer of health for Halton Region, emphasizes the need for these tests, stating, "While the risk of transmission is low, patients who may have been exposed should get tested as a precautionary measure."
The lapse in infection prevention and control measures happened intermittently between January 1, 2019, and July 17, 2025, leading to a possible cross-contamination and transmission of infections. However, there is no publicly available information regarding specific doctors or staff at Halton Family Health Centre Walk-in Clinic who may have used non-sterile needles during this period.
The notice was issued on a Wednesday, and Halton Region Public Health urges anyone who believes they may have been affected to contact their healthcare provider or the public health unit for further guidance. The public health unit assures that it is working closely with the clinic to address the issue and ensure appropriate infection prevention and control measures are in place moving forward.
This incident serves as a reminder of the importance of strict adherence to infection prevention and control protocols in healthcare settings. The public is advised to stay informed and follow any updates provided by Halton Region Public Health regarding this matter.
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