What happened at the Mortdale dental practice
Health authorities have issued a warning for current and former patients of a Mortdale dental practice operated by a sole practitioner, Safuan Hasic (also known as Steven Hasic). NSW Health says there were infection control breaches that could have exposed patients to blood-borne viruses through poorly cleaned or inadequately sterilised dental equipment. The incident prompted a formal closure order for the dental surgery and the suspension of the practitioner’s registration by the Dental Council of NSW.
Why patients are being urged to get tested
The risk to patients is described as low, but any exposure to blood-borne viruses—such as hepatitis B, hepatitis C, or HIV—needs careful medical follow-up. Blood-borne infections can be asymptomatic for long periods, so testing is a prudent precaution even if you felt well after your visit. Early detection allows for more effective treatment and reduces any potential health impact.
Who should consider testing
Any current or former patient who had dental work performed at the Mortdale practice by Mr Hasic is advised to contact their GP or a local health service about hepatitis B, hepatitis C, and HIV testing. NSW Health is directly contacting a small number of identified patients, but many patients may not be known to authorities and should seek testing as a precaution.
What patients should do next
If you had dental treatment at the Mortdale practice, plan a visit to your general practitioner (GP) to discuss testing for blood-borne viruses. Do not seek dental care from the practice while the closure order is in effect or while Mr Hasic’s registration remains suspended. If you require guidance, contact NSW Health or your local health district for support in arranging tests and follow-up care.
Testing and treatment options
Hepatitis B, hepatitis C, and HIV are conditions that have effective treatments and management strategies. A GP can order appropriate blood tests and, if needed, refer you to specialists or treatment programs. Early detection is linked to better outcomes, so acting promptly is encouraged even if you are not experiencing symptoms.
The public health response
The Dental Council of NSW has suspended the practitioner’s registration, and NSW Health has issued a closure order for the Mortdale surgery. The Chief Health Officer and public health officials emphasise that infection control breaches are taken seriously due to the potential health consequences, even if the overall risk is described as small.
What you should know about risk and safety
Infection control breaches do not automatically mean everyone was exposed, but they can create a window for potential transmission. Public health teams are working to identify affected patients and provide them with information and testing options. People who were treated by Mr Hasic should consider testing even if they have no symptoms, and continue to monitor their health with their GP’s guidance.
Suppport and resources
For those seeking information, helpful resources include NSW Health, the South Eastern Sydney Local Health District Public Health Unit, and your GP. If you’ve recently had tests—as a precaution or otherwise—discuss the results with your doctor to determine if any additional testing is necessary.
