BEIJING: A medical worker in north-eastern China used the same needle to test multiple pupils for tuberculosis, potentially exposing 78 children to infectious diseases, local authorities said, according to the German Press Agency (dpa).
The incident occurred on Tuesday (Oct 27) at a secondary school in Kangping county, in Liaoning province, during routine testing for tuberculosis, which involves injecting a substance into the skin to check for signs of infection.
According to a statement from local authorities late Thursday, the medical worker violated regulations requiring a new needle to be used for each student.
Chinese business magazine Caixin and Hong Kong news site HK01 reported that all 78 students had been tested using the same needle. HK01 shared a video circulating on social media showing angry parents gathered outside the school demanding answers.
Reusing needles carries a risk of transmitting blood-borne infections, including HIV and hepatitis.
Local authorities said all affected students had since undergone special medical examinations, with initial results showing no abnormalities.
A special commission has been established to investigate how the breach of medical safety regulations occurred. Those responsible could face disciplinary action, authorities said.
Classes at the school were continuing as normal, according to the statement. - Bernama-dpa
