Potential Endoscopy HIV Sources Come Forward

Nashville Vet Could Have Spread HIV
Man Says He Always Told Health Care Workers Of Virus
Reported By Nancy Amons

POSTED: 4:37 pm CDT July 28, 2009

This may be the key that the infected vets need to prove that they contacted HIV though contaminated equipment. I say that because with a potential source of HIV they will be able to compare the DNA and see if there is a match. Also, Mike Sheppard, attorney representing exposed veterans, said "he's representing another man who could also be the source."

"MURFREESBORO, Tenn. -- A Nashville veteran who had a colonoscopy there says he feels a heavy burden knowing he could have spread HIV infection to others."
""I'm sorry for the person who came behind me," said Hereford. "'Cause I already knew I was HIV-positive."

Hereford had a colonoscopy at the Murfreesboro VA in 2003. Five years later, the VA admitted its equipment wasn't properly assembled or sterilized. That caused bodily fluids to be passed from one patient to the next.

The VA has said 32 veterans have since tested positive for hepatitis B or C or HIV.

"Look how many people that didn't, don't deserve this, that are going to have it. They don't deserve it," said Hereford.

He said veterans should be compensated. He has contacted attorney Mike Sheppard, who has filed claims on behalf of 60 veterans so far.

Sheppard hasn't interviewed Hereford yet but said Hereford could possibly be the source of the HIV infection. Sheppard said he's representing another man who could also be the source."