Health warning over unlicensed tattoos

Published on 08/08/2012 00:42

A MAN has been charged with reckless conduct for allegedly carrying out tattoo work without a licence.

The man, aged 28, is accused of carrying out the work in the Edinburgh area.

Police and Edinburgh City environmental wardens investigated after being tipped off by members of the public.

Yesterday health officials warned people of the dangers of unlicensed tattooists.

Dr Duncan McCormick, consultant in public health medicine at NHS Lothian, said: “Unhygienic tattoo equipment carries a risk of infection of blood-borne viruses including hepatitis B, hepatitis C and HIV.

“We would advise anyone who has recently had a tattoo that was not from a licensed tattoo parlour to contact the our Health Protection Team for advice and information on testing and support.”