Alberta Health Services is encouraging anyone who has been inked by seven now-closed home-based Calgary tattoo parlours to get tested for disesases such as HIV and Hepatitis.
The AHS was alerted to the tattoo parlours in the Calgary area through complaints from the public. Their investigation is ongoing and more closures are expected in the coming weeks, said Deputy Medical Officer of Health for AHS Calgary, Dr. Judy MacDonald.
“This is an unfortunate situation and an important reminder that people considering a tattoo, piercing or similar procedure must do their homework before they select a particular facility,” says Dr. MacDonald. “We have strict health and safety standards in place, and only those facilities that meet these standards are approved for these types of procedures.”
MacDonald said the home-based tattoo parlours shut down by the AHS did not have proper sterlization – possibly exposing patrons to viruses.
The following tattoo parlours received closure orders:
1. Dustin Blatz Tattooing
2. Grave Marking Tattoo
3. Latino Tattoo Removal
4. Norm’s Tattoos
5. Outlaw Tattoo (has since remediated concerns and received approval to reopen, effective Jan. 8th, 2010)
6. Piercer Dan
7. Tattoo Girl
To confirm that any Calgary-area tattoo, piercing, or related facility is inspected and approved, call AHS-Calgary Environmental Health at 403-943-2288.
