Body art in the form of piercing and tattooing began in Egypt in 4000 B.C., long before the danger of disease and infection from these procedures was understood. With the technology and knowledge available today, we can better protect ourselves from health risks associated with these activities. The first concern that many people have when dealing with body art is the threat of HIV. However, it is much more likely to contract Hepatitis B from these procedures than HIV. Hepatitis B is a virus that is spread through contact with blood and other bodily fluids, or contaminated needles, including those used in tattooing and body piercing. The symptoms of Hepatitis B include; jaundice (yellowing of the skin), stomach pain, nausea, and vomiting which appear 45-160 days after contact with the virus. You should contact your doctor immediately if you have had a piercing or tattoo and begin experiencing these symptoms. Other complications that can result from tattoos and body piercing include allergic reactions from the tattoo dye or the piercing metal, and infections from improper care of the tattoo or piercing.
In the state of Ohio, tattoo and body piercing establishments are inspected by the local health department to ensure that proper sterilization of equipment and other regulations are being observed. When considering getting a tattoo or piercing there are several things that you should keep in mind. In Ohio, no one under that age of 18 is permitted to be tattooed or pierced without parental permission. The parent must be present with the minor at the establishment and sign a consent form. Once you get to the artist, you should take an overall look at the facility and make sure that it appears to be generally clean. If it isn’t don’t take any chances, and go to another establishment. Needles, razors, and bandages must come from a sealed package and should be opened in front of you so that you can see this. The artist must wear gloves during the entire procedure and wash their hands before and after the procedure. After the procedure is completed, the artist must provide oral and written care instructions for the tattoo or piercing. Finally, if you have any questions about the procedure, the artist should be willing to answer your questions. A good artist is more than happy to share their knowledge and work with patrons. If you have any questions, please contact the Logan County Health District at 592-9040.
Lisa Kennaw