Safuan Hasic: Patients of Mortdale dentist urged to get tested for HIV, hepatitis B, hepatitis C

Patients of a Sydney dentist whose practice has been shut down by health authorities have been urged to get tested for blood borne viruses, including HIV.

The Dental Council of NSW suspended Safuan Hasic’s registration last month and NSW has issued a closure order for his Mortdale practice.

Now, authorities have taken the extraordinary step of advising his patients to get tested as soon as possible after they identified alleged safety risks posed by poor cleaning and inadequate sterilisation.

A small number of patients have already been identified but authorities say many more are unknown and cannot be contacted, prompting the public appeal.

Vicky Sheppeard, South Eastern Sydney local health district’s public health unit director, said while the risk was low, blood borne viruses such as HIV and hepatitis B and C could have serious impacts.

“Any current or former patients of Mr Hasic should see their GP as soon as possible and ask to be tested for blood borne viruses as a precautionary measure,” Dr Sheppeard said.

“Blood borne viruses can be spread between clients on dental instruments where there isn’t stringent infection control.

“People infected with blood borne viruses may not show symptoms for many years, so it is important to be tested to see if there is silent infection. There are effective treatments for hepatitis B, hepatitis C and HIV.”

People who have had tests for hepatitis B, hepatitis C and HIV after their last visit with Mr Hasic should check with their GP if more tests are required, even if results were negative.

Patients of Mr Hasic have been urged to contact 1300 066 055.

Mr Hasic has been contacted for comment.