CHINA: Acupuncture Transmitted Infections

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CDC 04-07-10

CHINA: " Acupuncture Transmitted Infections "

British Medical Journal Vol. 340: P. c1268 (03.18.10):: C.Y. Woo; Ada

W.C. Lin; na K.P. Lau

Acupuncture, the insertion of fine needles at specific body points, on the

theory that this will promote the harmonious flow of " Qi, " or energy, is one of

the most widely practiced forms of alternative medicine. However, the authors of

the current editorial, microbiologists from the University of Hong Kong, warned

of the danger of infections associated with acupuncture and called for tighter

infection control measures.

" A new clinical syndrome has emerged in the 21st century, acupuncture

mycobacteriosis, which is mainly caused by rapidly growing mycobacteria, "

according to the authors. " These mycobacteria are thought to be transmitted from

the environment to patients via contaminated equipment used in acupuncture, such

as cottonwool swabs, towels, hot pack covers, and boiling tanks. "

In addition, " Five outbreaks of hepatitis B virus infection associated with

acupuncture, which affected more than 80 patients, have been described globally

since the 1970s. " In most instances, the virus was transmitted

patient-to-patient via improperly sterilized needles, though in one case an

infected acupuncturist was thought to be the source.

" The other two major blood-borne viruses, hepatitis C and HIV, could

hypothetically be transmitted by acupuncture, " the authors wrote.

Epidemiological and case-control studies have identified acupuncture as an

independent risk factor for hepatitis C virus infection. " Although no clear

evidence exists to support a link between acupuncture and HIV infection, there

are reports of patients with HIV who had no risk factors other than

acupuncture, " the authors wrote.

Further, the authors said that the first reports of methicillin-resistant

Staphylococcus aureus transmitted via acupuncture appeared in 2009, and " the

emergence of community-associated MRSA infections may aggravate the problem. "

" To prevent infections transmitted by acupuncture, infection control measures

should be implemented, such as use of disposable needles, skin disinfection

procedures, and aseptic techniques, " the authors concluded. " Stricter regulation

and accreditation requirements are also needed.

" Clinicians should also have a high index of suspicion, particularly for viral

and mycobacterial infections transmitted by acupuncture because of their

prolonged incubation periods, and they should alert health authorities about

clusters of cases. "