SYDNEY, N.S. — Piercing clients of The Tat Tomb Gallery in Sydney are being contacted after an inspection by Nova Scotia Environment that found there may have been an increased risk of contracting an illness through improperly cleaned piercing instruments.
The advisory applies to clients who frequented the establishment between June and November.
“This is a precautionary measure,” Dr. Claudia Sarbu, medical officer of health, said in a news release. “Under the Health Protection Act, we have obtained client records from the business and we are reaching out to those individuals to ensure appropriate followup, which includes testing for blood-borne illnesses.”
To date, no illnesses have been connected to piercing clients of The Tat Tomb Gallery. Risk of transmitting blood-borne illnesses, such as Hepatitis B, Hepatitis C and HIV, through piercing instruments is considered to be low.
“Even with low risk, we want to ensure these clients are aware and have the appropriate care and supports as needed,” Sarbu said.
Nova Scotia Environment inspected The Tat Tomb Gallery and reported to Public Health that piercing instruments may have been improperly cleaned. There was no indication of any issues in infection prevention and control regarding tattoo practices at the business.
Anyone who received a piercing from The Tat Tomb Gallery between June and November should follow-up with Public Health if they are not contacted. They can call toll-free 1-888-823-8224.
Public Health will continue to work with Nova Scotia Environment and The Tat Tomb Gallery. The Tat Tomb Gallery has complied with orders to stop piercing and provide client contact information for Public Health followup.
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