Montreal unregistered acupuncturist’s clients urged to get tested for HIV, hepatitis

Montreal public health is urging clients of a man offering acupuncture treatments in the city’s Notre-Dame-de-Grâce neighbourhood to get tested for hepatitis B, hepatitis C and HIV. 

Officials say the risks stem from the potential reuse and cross-contamination of acupuncture needles, suction cups and injections administered by Dashdorj Bayasgalan, also known as “Dr. Ba.”

The Quebec Order of Acupuncturists notified public health of a potential safety threat after receiving a complaint from one of Bayasgalan’s clients.

Public health says Bayasgalan is not a member of the order but provided treatments akin to acupuncture.