Thousands of former dental patients in Sydney are being urged to get tested for bloodborne viruses.
Health authorities in Australia have warned former patients of retired dentist William Tam to undergo medical testing after serious infection control failures were discovered at his clinic in western Sydney.
The New South Wales Health said patients who visited Tam’s clinic in Strathfield over the past 25 years may have been exposed to bloodborne viruses including HIV, hepatitis B, and hepatitis C.
Authorities stressed that the overall risk remains low, but said poor sterilisation and cleaning practices at the clinic raised concerns about possible virus transmission. Officials added that many infections can remain symptomless for years, making testing important.
An audit carried out in April reportedly found inadequately sterilised equipment and unsafe hygiene procedures. Tam retired and was deregistered shortly after the inspection.
The incident follows similar public health scares in Sydney in recent years, including major warnings issued to dental patients in 2018 and 2025 over potential exposure to infectious diseases.
Health officials say anyone treated at the clinic should contact a doctor for testing and medical advice.
