Public Alerted to Uninspected Tattoo Operations
THUNDER BAY, ON – Friday April 12, 2013 the Health Unit issued an order against Dale Doucet to stop providing uninspected home-based tattooing services. Tattooing services not inspected by the Health Unit 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.
“There is currently no evidence of transmission of infection from the operations,” 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.” Those who received a tattoo from this individual, and are concerned about their health, are asked to contact their health care provider for follow up.
Uninspected tattoo services were offered at various home-based locations in Thunder Bay. It is unknown at this time how many individuals were tattooed by Mr. Doucet. The Health Unit is asking clients who received services from Mr. Doucet at any home-based location to call the Health Unit as soon as possible to assist with the investigation. Public health inspectors are available between 8:30 am and 4:30 pm, Monday to Friday, by calling 625-8318 or toll-free at 1-888-294-6630,extension 8318.
The public can visit TBDHU.COM/ID for more information on safe tattooing.
The Health Unit recommends that individuals make sure the tattooing business they are using has been inspected by asking the business for their inspection records. Public health inspectors will provide a list of inspected businesses upon request.
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