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We are reminding local residents to make sure they use a licensed tattooist or skin piercer if getting a new tattoo or skin piercing.
This follows the arrest of an Edinburgh man for carrying out tattoo work in Gorebridge without a licence. The arrest prompted NHS Lothian to put out a warning about the serious health risks of using unlicensed tattooists. Unhygienic tattoo equipment carries a risk of infection of a range of dangerous blood-borne viruses, including Hepatitis B, Hepatitis C and HIV.
Cllr Owen Thompson, Cabinet Member responsible for Community Safety, said: "My message to residents is clear. If you wish to get a tattoo or piercing, always make sure you use a licensed tattooist. That way you can avoid a potentially serious infection. You should ask to see the licence and, if you're in any doubt, do not allow the procedure to start and report your concerns to the Police."
Anyone who believes that they have had tattoo or piercing work carried out by an unlicensed tattooist should immediately contact their doctor and should also inform the Police.
- More information (media release)
