Public Health Alert – High school tattooing

Situation

Several youths at a high school in Kenora received tattoos from an unlicensed tattoo artist within the school. Best practices for preventing transmission of blood-borne infections were not followed, and there is the risk of transmission of blood-borne infection.

Individuals are being directed to seek assessment by their primary care provider, including assessment for risk of blood-borne infections as well as skin infections.

Requested actions

• Assess the risk of blood-borne infection including HIV and hepatitis B and C using these screening and testing guides:
  • Hepatitis C virus (HCV): Screening and testing for health professionals – Canada.ca
  • Human Immunodeficiency Virus – HIV Screening and Testing Guide – Canada.ca
  • https://www.liver.ca/wp-content/uploads/2017/09/HBV-QR-EN-_FINAL_Web.pdf
• Provide education about:
  • Window period and requirement for re-testing
  • Risks related to sharing of needles, including tattoos and piercings
  • Importance of avoiding sexual contact or consistent use of barrier precautions during the window period, and at all times, related to preventing infections that can be transmitted through sexual activity and in some cases, sharing of needles or other sharp or cutting instruments

Contact your local NWHU office if you require further information and resources.

Contact:
Donna Stanley
Director, Health Protection
Northwestern Health Unit