Health alert issued in Sydney
Health authorities in New South Wales have asked thousands of former patients of a retired Sydney dentist to consider blood tests after concerns about infection control at his clinic.
The dentist, Dr William Tam, worked in Strathfield in western Sydney and has now been de-registered. Officials say he may have treated thousands of people over the past 25 years.
Possible exposure risk
Officials stressed that the risk is low, but they still advised testing as a precaution.
Dr Leena Gupta from the Sydney Local Health District said poor infection control could put former patients at risk of blood borne infections. She added that many people with these viruses may not show symptoms for years, so testing is important for early detection and treatment.
No patient records available
Authorities said there are no complete records to directly contact all patients who visited the clinic over the years. This has made it difficult to notify individuals one by one.
Because of this gap, officials have issued a broad public warning to anyone who may have received treatment there.
Inspection findings
Health inspectors reviewed the clinic in April. During the audit, they found problems with cleaning standards and equipment sterilisation.
Dr Zeina Najjar from the Sydney Local Health District said the inspection revealed inadequate infection control procedures, which led to the current public health alert.
Early testing allows timely treatment if needed, even when no symptoms are present.
