The findings of researchers from the University of British Columbia (UBC) published Monday in the International Journal of Infectious Diseases was based on the review and analysis of 124 studies from 30 countries.

Infection is attributed to the use of unsterilized tattoo instruments on more than one person and unsterilized tattoo dye containers, according to Dr. Siavash Jafari, a Community Medicine Resident in the UBC School of Population and Public Health and lead author of the research.

A person having tattoo is also at high risk of allergic reactions and HIV, hepatitis B, bacterial or fungal infections.

The researchers recommended that tattoo artists and clients strictly follow infection-control guidelines. Such guidelines should also be reinforced through inspection, recording and reporting of infection.

Another recommendation is to have hepatitis preventive programs for youth and prisoners, who have higher prevalence of hepatitis C infection.

Medicine Infection