Tattooing and piercing

There is a risk of infected blood surviving on tattoo and piercing equipment and jewellery, and then being passed into another person's bloodstream if they become nicked or cut.

By law in this country, registered tattoo artists and piercers must practise universal precautions that prevent the spread of viruses like Hepatitis C with all clients. However, in many other countries the rules are not so stringent. Also many tattoos and piercings are given by amateurs, so if you give or receive tattoos or piercings like this, make sure that:

• New and sterilised equipment is used on each and every person.
• Jewellery that pierces the skin is never shared.
• Any sharps (e.g. needles) are disposed of in a sharps bin.