A serious health alert has been issued for approximately 2,500 patients of a Toronto-based gynecologist’s office after it was uncovered that they may have been exposed to bloodborne infections, including HIV and Hepatitis B and C. The Ontario Health’s Peel Public Health revealed there are concerns regarding infection control practices at the office of Dr. Hany Sarhan, located in the Mississauga area. An investigation was launched following an inspection that identified potential breaches in sanitary protocols that could compromise patient safety.
The health board is actively contacting these patients to inform them of the possible risks and recommend testing for these infections. Officials stated that this situation is rare but emphasizes the importance of proper sterilization techniques in medical practices. “It is essential that providers adhere to strict hygiene protocols to ensure the safety of all patients,” said Dr. Eileen de Villa, Toronto’s Medical Officer of Health.
While further details of the investigation are ongoing, affected patients have been advised to contact their healthcare providers to discuss testing options. Additionally, the Peel Public Health has set up information lines to assist patients with their concerns. This incident highlights the critical need for stringent infection control measures in healthcare settings, particularly in environments that conduct invasive procedures.
As investigations continue, the clinic has not yet commented on the specific practices that led to this breach, but officials are urging anyone who visited the office for procedures between 2021 and 2023 to seek immediate medical advice. The case has raised questions about regulatory oversight in medical practices across the province, with calls for enhanced scrutiny to prevent similar occurrences in the future.
