Public Alerted to Uninspected Tattoo Operations
THUNDER BAY, ON – The TBDHU issued an order on January 4, 2012, against Andy Hrycyshyn and Taisha Rose to stop providing uninspected home-based tattooing services. Tattooing services not inspected by the TBDHU pose a health risk because any time the skin is pierced or tattooed, bacteria and viruses – such as hepatitis B, hepatitis C, HIV and other skin infections – can easily enter the body if proper infection control procedures are not in place. These uninspected services were offered at various home-based locations in Thunder Bay. Clients who received services from either of these individuals at home-based locations are advised to call the TBDHU.
“There is currently no evidence of transmission of infection by the operators,” said Dr. David Williams, Medical Officer of Health. “However, the public needs to be informed that if proper infection procedures are not in place there is always a level of risk, even if it is low.” The TBDHU recommends that individuals make sure the tattooing business they are using has been inspected by asking the business for their inspection records. The TBDHU will provide a list of inspected businesses upon request.
Questions can be directed to the infectious diseases program at 625-8318 or toll-free at 1-888-294-6630, extension 8318. Staff is available between 8:30 am and 4:30 pm, Monday to Friday. More information is available at TBDHU.COM/id
