NSW Health has issued an urgent public health alert urging thousands of former patients of retired Sydney dentist Dr William Tam to get tested for hepatitis B, hepatitis C, and HIV. The alert follows an audit that found poor infection control practices at his Strathfield clinic, where he practised for over 25 years.
Dr Leena Gupta, clinical director of public health for Sydney Local Health District, said the risk of infection is low but cannot be ruled out due to inadequate sterilisation of equipment and poor cleaning. The audit, conducted in April, also revealed poor patient record keeping, making it impossible to contact all potentially affected individuals.
Dr Zeina Najjar, a public health specialist, said patients who underwent invasive dental procedures where instruments may have pierced the skin or drawn blood are at slightly higher risk. However, no former patients have been diagnosed with a blood-borne virus to date.
NSW Health advises all patients of Dr Tam to see their GP for testing, as these infections can remain asymptomatic for decades but are treatable if detected early. Former patients can also contact Healthdirect on 1800 022 222 for further information.
