The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has issued an emergency response and preparedness health advisory about outbreaks of nontuberculous mycobacteria infections that have happened via dental waterlines.
The alert was issued through the agency’s Health Alert Network. It reminds dental patients and professionals of the importance of sanitation during dental procedures.
Nontuberculous mycobacteria are defined as “opportunistic pathogens [that place] some groups at increased risk, including those with underlying lung disease or depressed immune systems,” according to the CDC.
