The Pima County Health Department reports it is contacting 174 patients who were seen at a Marana dental clinic in 2010 because "they may have been exposed to blood-borne diseases like hepatitis or HIV."
In a press release, county officials said the now-closed T Dental Clinic, 3662 W. Ina Road, had what may have been improperly installed equipment, and that could have led to exposure between January and July 2010.
"This is a precautionary measure and at this time no cases of transmission of disease have been identified," the press release said.
The Health Department is trying to contact all patients who may have been exposed. Based on records, that is limited 174 people, but health officials say anyone who was a patient in the first half of 2010 should contact them. The contact number is (520) 243-7808.
“At this time we are trying to help provide residents with sufficient information so they can take the appropriate steps to feel secure about their health," said county Health Director Francisco García. "The only individuals at risk for infection are those who were seen at T Dental Clinic during a very specific period of time.”
There is no evidence at this time that patients were exposed to Hepatitis B, Hepatitis C or HIV, the press release said. The Health Department "strongly recommends the people who have been contacted make an appointment with their primary care physician to test for these diseases."
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