Thousands of Australians have to go to the AIDS test after a dental surgery

Increased risk of HIV and hepatitis after dental visit
In Sydney, Australia, at least 11,000 patients may have been infected with HIV or hepatitis during dental surgery. The reason for the increased risk are obviously gross deficiencies in hygiene. The French news agency AFP reports that the allegations are being directed against a total of 12 dentists, with six already suspended.

Several dentist practices in Sydney violate hygiene regulations
More than 11,000 Sydney patients currently have a risk of becoming infected with dental treatment for HIV or hepatitis. According to the French news agency "AFP", this is due to insufficiently cleaned and sterilized treatment equipment. According to AFP, Jeremy McAnulty, director of the Department of Health of the State of New South Wales, said twelve dentists from four practices in Sydney alleged violations of sanitary regulations.

Many patients in Australia have to go to the HIV test after a dental surgery. (Image: Christoph Hähnel / fotolia.com)

Due to the lack of hygiene during the dental surgery, the affected patients are now called to undergo an HIV and hepatitis A, B and C test. At the present time, according to McAnulty, there is no indication of actual infection: "We are hopeful that there is no contagion and the assumed risk is low, but it is best for people to know their condition, for it gives treatments for infections, "the AFP quoted the head of the health department.

Six doctors already suspended
The case had already been triggered in November, after a complaint about a treatment led to a subsequent investigation. This would have brought to light "significant violations of the hygiene rules," said Shane Fryer of the Dental Association of New South Wales to the AFP. Accordingly, six dentists have been suspended so far, in six other cases, the approbation has also been linked with editions.

"While we believe that the vast majority of New South Wales dentists comply with the guidelines, we now recognize that there is a need for more in-service training within the profession. To this end, the Dental Association is working with our stakeholders to improve knowledge and understanding of our guidelines for infection control, "continues The Guardian, quoting Shane Fryer. (No)