Hepatitis C found in Irish who had dental work overseas

Irish scientists have identified a number of hepatitis C cases among "health tourists" who had dental work or cosmetic surgery done overseas.

Cases of hepatitis C have been reported among people who traveled to Hungary, Romania, Bulgaria, and South Africa for dental treatment, according to a story in the Irish Times.

The number is thought to be small, but more cases are likely because most people with hepatitis C are unaware they have it, the story noted. Of the estimated 50,000 people in Ireland infected, only 12,000 cases have been diagnosed. No cases of transmission have been reported as a result of dental or cosmetic treatment performed in Ireland.

Health officials have called on the government to begin mass screening and awareness programs to identify all those infected by the disease.