The HSE today announced more than 400 patients will be asked to attend Hepatitis C screening following the diagnosis of the condition in a person who worked at three hospitals in the HSE West area.
The individual was involved in a number of surgical procedures at Galway University Hospitals, Mayo General Hospital and Letterkenny General Hospital between 2004 and 2008.
The public health department of the HSE West will carry out a follow-up process on 457 patients who were operated on during that time and have been identified as requiring screening.
The HSE said although the risk to patients is considered to be very low, screening would give reassurance to patients, who are being offered a single blood test that may be carried out by their GP or at a HSE West clinic. Results will be returned to patients and their GPs within seven days of the test, the HSE said. Those deemed to be in need of screening will be notified by letter.
Patients affected will receive their letters on Monday including details of a dedicated helpline based at the hospitals concerned where they can receive further information. The HSE Infoline is also available on 1850 24 1850 from 8am - 8pm on Friday 21st May and from 9.30am until 5pm on Saturday.
HSE West said it sincerely regrets the worry reviews like this can cause.
Hepatitis C is a virus that can affect the liver. Healthcare workers may become infected from infected patients during the work.