Patient sues Ontario clinic after Hepatitis C from unsterile needle injection

A Canadian law firm has launched a $5 million lawsuit against a walk-in clinic and its doctor. The claim follows a patient allegedly contracting Hepatitis C after receiving an injection with an unsterile needle. Darwin Allen, the affected patient, tested positive for the virus in December 2025. The incident dates back to September 2023, when Allen visited Halton Family Health Centre Walk-In Clinic for a cut to his heel. He was treated by Dr. Timothy Salter, who administered lidocaine using a needle that the lawsuit claims was not sterile. Nearly two years later, in November 2025, Halton Region Public Health uncovered improper infection control practices at the clinic, including the reuse of unsterile needles.

Diamond and Diamond Lawyers, representing Allen, filed the lawsuit in the Ontario Superior Court of Justice. The firm alleges negligence, vicarious liability, and breach of fiduciary duty against both the clinic and Dr. Salter. According to the claim, the defendants failed to enforce proper sterilisation procedures and neglected infection prevention protocols.

The law firm has also suggested that other patients treated at the clinic may have been exposed to similar risks. They have urged anyone with concerns to come forward and contact the firm for legal advice. Allen’s positive Hepatitis C diagnosis in December 2025 forms the basis of the legal action. The lawsuit seeks $5 million in damages, citing the clinic’s failure to maintain safe medical practices. Public health officials and legal representatives continue to investigate the extent of the issue.