Oklahoma Investigation Reveals Hep C Transmission – Dental Infection Control

Oklahoma investigators announce first documented patient-to-patient hepatitis C transmission in a dental office

On September 18, Oklahoma public health investigators released a status update confirming the first known patient-to-patient transmission of hepatitis C. The transmission occurred in an Oklahoma dental office under investigation for poor infection control practices and improper delegation of dental duties. Back in March, media outlets nationwide reported on an Oklahoma oral surgeon under investigation for poor infection control practices and improper delegation of dental duties. Over 7000 patients were affected by his transgressions.

Months later, after testing over 4000 patients for HIV, hepatitis B and C, genetic-based testing of patient specimens by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) revealed the first ever documented case of patient-to-patient transmission of hepatitis C in a dental setting in the United States.

The report reinforces the importance of adhering to proper infection control procedures, such as proper instrument processing and sterilization, surface disinfection, sterilizer monitoring, etc. OSHA Review recommends that dental offices follow the CDC’s 2003-Guidelines for Infection Control in Dental Health-Care Settings, in addition to OSHA’s Bloodborne Pathogens Standard.

Since 1992, OSHA Review, Inc. has provided dental professionals with comprehensive programs to support regulatory compliance and infection control. We are a registered continuing education provider in the state of California, specializing in Dental Practice Act, infection control, and OSHA training.

OSHA Review, Inc. provides the SUV Disinfectant & Cleaner in both concentrate and ready-to-use wipes. SUV Disinfectant and Cleaner meets OSHA and EPA regulations, and CDC recommendations. SUV is a hospital disinfectant proven effective against HIV, HBV and HCV.

In addition, OSHA Review, Inc. provides sterilizer monitoring services in all 50 states through the Spore Check System. The Spore Check System is endorsed by the Arizona, California, Ohio and Texas Dental Association.