Patients of an acupuncturist who used contaminated needles found the actions of the 78-year-old practitioner “disgusting,” leading Public Health to investigate over 350 individuals he treated.
• Also read: $30,000 fine for acupuncturist: his patients worried after being treated with dirty needles
Geneviève, who prefers to remain anonymous due to fear of retaliation, received a letter on Sunday from the Centre intégré universitaire de santé et de services sociaux (CIUSSS) de la Capitale-Nationale. The letter warned her of “a real risk” that the needles used by acupuncturist Gasan Askerow might have infected her.
“This is disgusting! I cried, raged, and panicked while reading it. Especially upon seeing the recommendations for HIV and hepatitis screenings… I had seen him for fertility issues from September 2023 to January 2024. […] I’m typically not a mean person, but right now I’m angry. This really worries me.”
The Journal reported on Tuesday that Gasan Askerow was fined $30,000 and temporarily suspended for three months for using dirty needles, among other violations. The man, who resides in Quebec City, has been providing acupuncture services since 1979.
“No heart”
Quebec Public Health and Montreal Public Health confirmed that they initiated an epidemiological investigation into this case on April 3. This investigation is still ongoing to identify and reach out to over 350 patients of the acupuncturist. The Journal interviewed five individuals who received treatment from Askerow.
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Isabelle, a 47-year-old mother, claims that she has always viewed the practices of acupuncturists as “suspicious.”
“I’ve gone home once with a needle still in my back. I saw him three times in 2017, but even though I didn’t receive a letter to get tested, I’m still going to follow up. You have to be a bit weak-willed,” she lamented over the phone.
Former acupuncturist’s office on Queen Mary Street in Montreal. The Order specifies that Gasan Askerow did not declare this office where he practiced prior to being apprehended in March 2024.
Photo Pierre-Paul Poulin
Infected patients?
Public Health states that no infections or illnesses have been identified during their investigation so far. However, testing of hundreds of patients is still ongoing.
“We recommend that clients of this acupuncturist who have been treated with needles since 2018 get tested for hepatitis B, hepatitis C, and the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV),” said Stéphanie Roy from the CIUSSS de la Capitale-Nationale.
Acupuncturist’s treatment room in Montreal, where Askerow would lay his patients on folding tables.
Court document
In an interview with our representative on Thursday, Gasan Askerow insisted that he “never used contaminated needles” on his clients, despite the accusations from his professional order. The septuagenarian then declined to provide further comments on the situation.
“Three hundred and fifty clients were treated by the acupuncturist at his clinic in Quebec, the majority of whom live in the Capitale-Nationale region, around fifty in Chaudière-Appalaches, and about twenty from other areas of Quebec,” the authorities stated, adding that fewer than ten Montreal residents were also treated by Askerow.
Photos of needles found in a “common pot” in his office in Montreal.
Court document
WHAT TO DO IF YOU WERE STUCK BY THIS ACUPUNCTURIST?
- Public Health recommends that clients of this acupuncturist treated with needles, since 2018, get tested for hepatitis B, hepatitis C, and HIV.
- Clients who received acupuncture treatments in Montreal can schedule a screening appointment at the local Côte-Saint-Luc service point (6900 Décarie Blvd., Montreal) by calling 514 734-9911, option 1.
- Clients treated in Quebec can make an appointment for screening at the CLSC de la Haute-Ville (55, chemin Sainte-Foy, Quebec) by calling 581 992-8431.
- If you have any questions or concerns, feel free to contact Info-Santé at 811.
Contaminated Needles: A Major Concern in Acupuncture
Acupuncturist Gasan Askerow Under Investigation
In an alarming health scare, patients of 78-year-old acupuncturist Gasan Askerow have expressed outrage after receiving notifications regarding potential infections from contaminated needles. The Centre intégré universitaire de santé et de services sociaux (CIUSSS) de la Capitale-Nationale has warned over 350 patients about a “real risk” of infection due to unsafe practices at Askerow’s clinic.
Letter sent to Geneviève indicating possible infections.
Geneviève, a former patient of Askerow who sought treatment for fertility issues, shared her distress after receiving the notification: “This is disgusting! I cried, raged, and panicked reading it. Especially seeing the HIV and hepatitis screening recommendations.” Gasan Askerow, who has been practicing since 1979, has been fined $30,000 and temporarily disbarred for his negligent practices.
Public Health Investigation Underway
Quebec and Montreal Public Health authorities have launched a comprehensive epidemiological investigation, which began on April 3. The probe continues as officials work to contact the significant number of affected patients and determine if any infections have occurred. To date, no infections have been definitively linked to Askerow’s practices.
Patient Experiences
Reports from several former patients highlight growing concerns about hygienic practices in acupuncture. Isabelle, a 47-year-old mother, recounted her uneasy feelings during her treatments: “I’ve already been home once and I still had a needle in my back.” Despite not receiving a warning to get tested, she plans on undergoing assessments to ensure her health remains uncompromised.
Former acupuncturist’s office where Askerow practiced.
Health Risks and Recommendations
Public Health officials are advising individuals treated by Askerow since 2018 to undergo screenings for hepatitis B, hepatitis C, and HIV. Stéphanie Roy from CIUSSS stated, “We recommend getting tested to ensure your safety.” While no infections have yet been reported, testing is crucial for peace of mind.
Testing Information
If you have received acupuncture treatments from Gasan Askerow, here’s what you need to do:
- Make an appointment for screening at local health centers:
- In Montreal: Côte-Saint-Luc service point (6900 Décarie Blvd., Montreal) – Call 514 734-9911, option 1.
- In Quebec City: CLSC de la Haute-Ville (55, chemin Sainte-Foy, Quebec) – Call 581 992-8431.
- If you have questions or concerns, contact Info-Santé at 811.
Conclusion
Expert Opinions on Acupuncture Safety
In light of this incident, experts stress the importance of choosing a licensed and reputable acupuncturist. Patients should actively inquire about hygienic practices and ensure that needles are sterile and single-use.
Photos of needles found during the investigation.
FAQs on Acupuncture Practices and Hygiene
What are the common practices to ensure needle safety in acupuncture?
- Use single-use, pre-sterilized needles.
- Discard used needles in biohazard containers.
- Maintain a clean and hygienic treatment environment.
How can I confirm my acupuncturist is qualified?
Ensure your acupuncturist is licensed and registered with the appropriate health authorities. Consider asking about their training and certifications.
What should I do if I experience adverse effects after treatment?
If you feel unwell or notice unusual symptoms after an acupuncture session, seek immediate medical attention and relay your history of treatment.
