Acupuncture and public safety

I'm surprised to see so many reports in the news about a research paper that came out in Hong Kong that says bacterial infections, hepatitis and possibly HIV infections are being transmitted by contaminated acupuncture needles. They say tougher regulations and infection control measures such as disposable needles and disinfection techniques are needed.

While that may be true in Hong Kong, licensed acupuncturists in the US are trained and legally required to use clean needle techniques which include single use of sterilized needles. 

I've never heard of an infection from an acupuncture needle by a licensed practitioner here in the US. While it is important to keep informed about health care issues and possible risks, it is also important not to jump to conclusions from news items that don't clearly state where and under what circumstances the problem occurs. I guess the researchers were referring to acupuncture as it is practiced in Hong Kong where perhaps people practice using the same standards as they have for generations.  I don't know anything about the training or regulation of acupuncture there, but modern practitioners are aware of how to prevent infections. 

In any case, you can rest assured that licensed practitioners here in the US have been educated and trained to prevent infections and you can therefore enjoy your totally safe acupuncture sessions with a peaceful mind.