Acupunct Med. 2001 Dec; 19(2): 109-11.

Control of infection in acupuncture.

Walsh B.

Kingston & Richmond Health Authority. Barry.B.Walsh@kingrich-ha.sthames.nhs.uk

This paper is an update on infections, and potential infections, related to acupuncture, and a brief review of the relevant infection control procedures. There is no evidence at present to suggest that significant numbers of infections are being transmitted through standard acupuncture treatments in the UK. None the less, good infection control is essential. Like any other science, new research forces infection control to evolve and refine its procedures. Acupuncturists need to constantly review their standards as new viruses and risks are identified.