Public health inspectors have shut down a home-based tattoo parlour in the Pond Mills area.
Acting on a tip, inspectors with the Middlesex London Health Unit visited the home on Shelbourne St., where the resident was allegedly providing tattoos without adequate infection prevention and control measures.
Health Unit officials call the practice unsafe and warns it could lead to the spread of blood-borne infections such as HIV and hepatitis B and C.
As a precaution, anyone who received a tattoo at this location is encouraged to see their doctor to be tested for the infectious diseases. Those undergoing blood tests are urged to using a condom during sex and avoiding the sharing of injection drug equipment, razors, nail clippers, toothbrushes, and other personal items until they receive their results.
Health Unit officials says home-based tattoo services advertised on social media or classified ad websites, like kijiji and Craigslist, are not typically inspected by the Health Unit, or licensed by the City of London. Anyone interested in getting a tattoo is advised to ask to see a public health inspection report before the tattoo artist begins.
The health unit inspects licensed tattoo and body piercing businesses at least once a year. To see inspection reports for licensed tattoo establishments in London and Middlesex County click here.
