German authorities say a doctor accused of re-using unsterilised
needles may have infected hundreds.

Investigators say the 56-year-old doctor in Bad Saulgau used contaminated
needles many times over on different patients and more than 2, 000 may have
been infected with the HIV or hepatitis virus.

More than 2,000 patients who underwent treatment at this surgery in Germany
face an agonising wait to find out if they've been infected with HIV or
hepatitis.

Some 1,800 have been advised to take an AIDS test.

The doctor they saw re-used unsterilised needles and other equipment time
and again on different patients.

Albert Reck is one of the victims.

Albert Reck, patient, saying:
"About five or six years ago I started going to her practice after
an acute hearing loss. Over time I was told she would carry out more
treatments like injections of my own blood. I trusted her."

The 56-year-old ear, nose, and throat doctor has been suspended.

Court officials say she could be charged with inflicting grievous bodily
harm.

Axel Mueller, Ravensburg District Court spokesman, saying:
"According to the charge the syringes were inadequately cleaned.
For example, some were cleaned only with washing-up liquid and similar
products. Sometimes they weren't cleaned at all."

The case is due to come to trial next month.

Paul Chapman, Reuters