MLHU warns of possible exposure of blood-borne infections at London dermatology clinic over 13-year span

The Middlesex-London Health Unit is warning patients of a Hyde Park dermatology clinic of potential exposures to blood-borne infections over a span of 13 years.

Health officials say current and past patients of DermEffects may have been exposed to blood-borne infections during specific medical procedures.

The warning covers punch biopsies, curettage, as well as cautery and excision performed between Jan. 3, 2012, and Jan. 13, 2025.

Anyone who had non-medical procedures, such as laser or injectables with a needle, like Botox and filler, is not included in the alert.

Officials say anyone who received those services should contact their healthcare provider.

The clinic is located at 1560 Hyde Park Road.

“An infection prevention and control (IPAC) lapse occurs when, for example, cleaning and sterilization best practices are not followed properly, potentially risking infection to clients and employees,” read a news release from the MLHU.

Improper sterilization procedures can lead to bacterial skin infections and could spread blood-borne infections in rare situations.

The MLHU said there are no known infections from the IPAC lapse at this time. There is no risk to current patients as the lapse has been corrected.