School experiment HIV risk hidden: mother

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The mother of one of the students says it has been a terrifying experience that has been swept under the carpet. (ABC News: Jessica Kidd)

A mother has accused authorities of wanting to hide all the consequences of a Tasmanian school science experiment that resulted in HIV and hepatitis testing on high school children.

A month ago, a teacher at Dover's District High School used one lancet to take blood samples from 18 grade nine and 10 students as part of a science experiment.

The lancet was not properly sterilised between tests.

The Department of Education has since sent letters home to parents urging them to have their children tested for HIV, and hepatitis B and C.

The mother of one of the students, who did not want to be identified, says it has been a terrifying experience that has been swept under the carpet.

"They haven't addressed anyone to go to the school for a meeting," she said.

The mother says other parents appear wary of forcing the issue.

"But what do you do, nobody seems to be standing up, or saying anything," she said.

"Maybe the parents are frightened that their school will shut down and they'll have to send them to other schools, I don't know."

Education Minister Lin Thorp has ordered an investigation into the incident and the state's Opposition Leader wants the results released as soon as possible.

Will Hodgman says the Ms Thorp must tell the community what is happening.

"It's for the Minister to ensure that the proper protocols are in place that the proper support and assistance to all those concerned, including the teacher, is provided quickly and to provide the public with as much information as she can to reduce the risk of fear and concern in the broader community," he said.

The students will have to wait months for their final test results.