Chatham Skin Clinic patients urged to test for HIV, hepatitis after sterilization lapses

Chatham-Kent Public Health. (Source: CTV News)

The Chatham-Kent Public Health Unit has identified lapses in the sterilization and reprocessing of medical equipment at the Chatham Skin Clinic between Oct. 1, 2024 to Jan. 30, 2026.

Health officials say breaches in infection control processes may be associated with the transmission of blood borne illnesses such as HIV and Hepatitis.

Patients may have received treatment at the clinic for skin biopsies and cosmetic treatments and the Health Unit says anyone who underwent a procedure in the last year and a half is asked to contact their doctor, healthcare provider or a walk in clinic to determine if a test for hepatitis B, hepatitis C or HIV would be beneficial.