Tattoo Infections Traced To Ink
August 24, 2012 9:00 AM 
With more and more people getting “inked” there has been a corresponding increase in the number of tattoo related infections. Recent reports cited by CBS and YNN found that some 22 confirmed cases and more than 30 suspected cases of skin infections have surfaced including 19 in the Rochester area.
Infections from tattooing are nothing new. Hepatitis, staph infections and even the superbug known as MRSA have been tied to tattoos. Dirty needles and unsanitary conditions are often to blame. But all the New York cases were linked to an unidentified artist who wore disposable gloves and sterilized his instruments. The problem, investigators concluded, was in the ink. “Even if you get a tattoo from a facility that does everything right, it’s not risk free,” said Dr. Byron Kennedy, deputy director of the health department in New York’s Monroe County.
Just remember to ask your tattoo artist what kind of ink he or she is using and what measures are being used to insure sterility. Also, if a rash or redness develops see a health care professional immediately.
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