Halton Region Public Health is advising residents of an infection prevention and control (IPAC) lapse at the Halton Family Health Centre Walk-in Clinic at 2951 Walkers Line in Burlington.
An investigation found that, between January 1st, 2019 and July 17th, 2025, unsterile needles were intermittently used with a multidose vial of local anesthetic medication (freezing). They note that the same needle was not used continuously throughout this period. This practice may have posed a risk of cross-contamination and infection. The issue applies only to the walk-in clinic during that time frame, not to the family practice physician offices at the same location.
The clinic has since taken corrective measures, and Public Health says there are no risks to current patients. However, anyone who received a procedure involving local anesthetic injections – such as stitches, IUD insertions, biopsies, lump or nail removals, or joint injections – is asked to speak with their healthcare provider about testing for hepatitis B, hepatitis C, and HIV.
Dr. Deepika Lobo, Halton’s Medical Officer of Health, stressed that while the risk of transmission is low, the priority is making sure patients have the information and resources needed for precautionary testing.
For details, including lab requisitions and physician letters, click here or call Public Health at 311, 905-825-6000, or 1-866-442-5866.
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