Failure to properly sterilize surgical equipment may have put Australian soldiers and contractors stationed in Iraq at risk for blood-borne diseases, including HIV and hepatitis, the Australian Associated Press (AAP) reports. The breach occurred at the Al-Minhad Air Base (AMAB) in the United Arab Emirates from February 2009 to August 2010, where out-of-date sterilization strips and cleansing soap were used and sterilizers weren’t updated properly. The AMAB facility is not used for surgical procedures related to battle, but all soldiers moving to and from Afghanistan pass through the health center. Individuals were notified that while their risk is low, they should be checked.

To read the AAP article, click here.