HEALTH experts have said another 23 students at the University of Derby may have been put at risk of developing HIV because of a possible health blunder.
The University of Derby had already written to 606 of its past and present students, asking them to go to their GP or a hospital for a blood test.
But it said it had now identified another 23 former students it will be contacting, who attended the University of Derby in 2005 and 2006.
The letters were sent as part of an investigation into potential "errors" with vaccinations and blood tests given to students by one healthcare worker between September 2005 and October 2013.
It is understood the worker – contracted from outside the university to work within its occupational health service – incorrectly reused syringe barrels, putting students at risk of viruses such as HIV, hepatitis B and hepatitis C.
Students affected were on seven different courses and were required to go through health screening and get vaccinations before work placements in hospitals, health centres and other places.
Health experts said the risk was "extremely low" and the offer of blood tests was a "precautionary measure".
They said the original 606 students had been highlighted because the initial of the healthcare worker had appeared on their records.
But they said further checks of student records had identified 23 incomplete records without an initial. They said they wanted to "err on the side of caution" by advising these students to get blood tests as well.
And they said were now as "confident as they could be" all affected students had been identified.
Professor John Coyne, vice-chancellor of the University of Derby, said: "We appreciate what a difficult week this has been for our students and are sorry for any worry this will undoubtedly have caused.
"We are working closely with the health agencies involved to respond to the concerns raised by students as quickly as possible.
"We are extremely pleased with the response so far from students contacting the advice line - which was established to ensure people had an opportunity to engage fully in this process and raise additional concerns they may have.
"We have already handled well more than 600 calls and been able to provide the support and assurance students require.
"As a result of this, an additional check of other health records has identified the need to contact a further 23 students.
"As a precautionary measure, these further students from 2005 and 2006 will also be contacted and invited for testing. There is no need for anyone who has already called the advice line to call again."
Dr Doug Black, medical director for NHS England Derbyshire and Nottinghamshire, said: "I would emphasise that, whilst I understand people will be concerned about this, the risks identified are extremely low.
"Those students with concerns should contact the confidential advice line on 03330 142479 for further information on what actions they should take next."
