Women tested in hepatitis alert

Health officials say the infection risk to patients is remote

About 30 women who were operated on by a doctor carrying hepatitis C have been given blood tests.

A further 270 women are expected to be tested for the virus to check if it has been passed on.

The doctor, who has not been named, works in the Obstetrics and Gynaecology department at Tameside General Hospital, in Greater Manchester.

Health officials have said that there is only a remote chance of the virus being passed on.

The results of the tests are not expected to be known for two weeks.

A helpline has been set up by the hospital for anyone concerned they might have been infected.

All those contacted by the hospital have been offered blood tests and a face-to-face consultation.