Hepatitis C And Tattooing: Can You Get Hepatitis From Tattoos
Whether if it is for symbolic sentimentalities, self-expression, artistic freedom, or a visual display of a personal narrative, tattoos have always remained popular for a multitude of reasons. As the art form continues to move from the fringes into the mainstream, many have begun to wonder whether it poses any risk of infection from blood-borne diseases such as Hepatitis C.
Continue reading further to learn about the possible health risks associated with infected tattoos.
You May Like: How To Treat A Tattoo
What We Know About Kissing
Theres no chance of getting HIV from closed-mouth or social kissing, and you cant get HIV through saliva. In some very rare cases, people have gotten HIV from deep, open-mouth French kissing because they and their partners had blood in their mouths from bleeding gums or sores . But the chance of getting HIV from deep, open-mouth kissing is much lower than from most other sexual activities.
Also Check: What Laser Is Used For Tattoo Removal
What Is A Window Period
When a person gets infected it may take 6 weeks or up to 3 months before antibodies to HIV are detected in the blood. The HIV test looks for antibodies. When these antibodies are detected the person is diagnosed HIV positive. A person can be positive and the test shows negative because the test was done during the window period.
Recommended Reading: Tattoo Shops Near Riverwalk In San Antonio Tx
Can You Get Hiv From A Tattoo
- Written By Dan Hunter on July 5, 2021Last Updated: July 6, 2021
There are lots of risks from getting a tattoo as you are inserting needles into your skin, which draws blood. However, the risk of getting HIV from tattoos is very low.
As with everything, you should thoroughly research and prepare before getting a tattoo. Check out the tattoo studio and the artist. Are they hygienic and professional?
Once you are aware of the risks involved this will give you the tools to make sure that you are safe from any infection.
We will share with you all that you need to know about the risks of getting HIV when having a tattoo and how you can minimize the chances to nearly zero.
What Are The Chances Of Getting Hiv By A Tattoo
Hello and thanks for trusting me to help you. I am a board-certified consultant with over 30 years of experience. And I would serve you with care and patience.
There is a theoretical of transmission, there has yet to be a single documented case of HIV by any form of body art.
Maybe less than 1 in 10000.
Let me know if you have any further queries so we can discuss it thoroughly in every aspect.Its my pleasure to continue this conversation until you satisfy.Waiting for your response.
No need to worry at all about HIV.
Yes, you would be clear.
Also Check: Does The Bible Say Tattoos Are A Sin
Do I Need To Take A Test After Having A Tattoo
If you have done your homework and have checked out the tattoo studio before having your tattoo, there should be no need to have a HIV test following your tattoo. However, if you rushed out to get a tattoo without thinking about it and doing your research, it would depend on what the conditions were.
If the tattoo studio that you used is not the most hygienic and professional, it could be a different story.
If equipment is not disposed of between uses or completely sterilized after use, it may be best to have a test following your tattoo. This will give you the peace of mind that you need.
How Do You Contract Bloodborne Pathogens From Tattoos
Needlestick injuries are the primary concern when it comes to transmitting bloodborne pathogens. Drug users have a higher risk of disease, and health care workers must take extra precautions when working with needles.
The same is true for tattoo artists. They use a hand-held tattoo machine, which has a needle to puncture the top layer of the skin and inject ink into the next layer, the dermis. The needle moves in and out of your skin rapidly, similar to a sewing machine action, hitting your skin anywhere from 50 to 3,000 times each minute.
The needle forces tiny droplets of ink into the dermis with each impact. The dermis is full of nerves, glands, and blood vessels. Not only does it hurt, but it also makes you bleed.
Contaminated equipment can spread bloodborne pathogens. Your tattoo is an open wound, and there is little interference if a bloodborne pathogen is present in the ink, needle, or another piece of equipment. Any bodily fluid that makes contact with a tattoo can also potentially spread a bloodborne pathogen.
Recommended Reading: Laser Tattoo Removal Or Cover Up
Can Hiv Transmitted Through Tattoo
There is no documented HIV outbreak among tattooing in the United States, but the Center for Disease Control and Prevention states that tattoo needles thported with HIV acquisition via tattooing but does caution that it is possible for a tattoo needle that has been exposed to contaminated blood has the potential
You May Like: How Many Sessions To Remove Tattoo
How To Avoid Getting An Infected Tattoo:
Ideally, youll have a problem-free tattoo. Follow Tonkovic-Capins advice for mitigating risk before scheduling your appointment at the tattoo parlor:
Make sure your tattoo artist is licensed. Ask your tattoo artist how they clean and sterilize the equipment, says Tonkovic-Capin. Make sure that they wear gloves during the procedure. After the tattooing is over, your tattoo artist should provide you detailed written instructions on aftercare.
Refer to the FDA for more information about tattoos and preparing for your next tattoo appointment.
Also Check: Best Tattoo Shops In Mesa Az
Read Also: Removing Stick And Poke Tattoos
Can I Get A Tattoo With Hiv
Can I get a tattoo with HIV?Im undetectable and, my cd4 count 398 and has been steadily rising for the past year. I love the tattoos I have I would love to get more.
Yes you could get a tat. But remember !!! Make Sure the Parlor is Clean !. Because it’s you , that you Have to protect. You don’t want another Strain of HIV. Good luck . . .
I have gotten 3 or 4 tats since I was diagnosed i did not disclose my status to the artist and i think in my state its not even legal to get tattooed if you’re poz but i didnt even read the service consent i knew i was undetectable but i still feel like i should have disclosed my status and given the artist the option to choose whether or not he wanted to do the work
I have two tattoos and have had no issues, just take care of yourself and go to a respectful tattoos place.
I have no tattoos. I like some men who have tasteful inked skin and in some cases find it very sexy. I’ve never wanted a tattoo because — well — I’ve an aversion to needles! LOL I’ve read that getting tattooed can be dangerous for a person with HIV because of the possibility of acquiring an infection or other blood born disease . The possibility of a tattoo artist being careless and not cleaning his equipment or using used or dirty needles is also scary. For someone HIV+ , check out the artist and their parlor thoroughly before proceeding. Your life is worth more than a few inches of ink.
Can You Get Bloodborne Pathogens From Tattoos
For 2022 Guidelines, please visit our Bloodborne Pathogens training page.
Its common to have an adverse skin reaction after getting a tattoo. Many see it as a small, temporary price to pay for the emotional and social benefits of permanent body art.
Sometimes, complications from tattoos go beyond the skin. In these cases, you may contract bloodborne pathogens that cause severe, long-lasting health issues.
Professional artists in tattoo parlors undergo training to reduce the risk, but there are still cases of exposure. If you are considering your next tattoo, this article will explain how you can contract bloodborne pathogens so that you can take the necessary precautions.
Don’t Miss: What Happens At A Tattoo Convention
What Hepatitis Can You Get From Tattoos
As tattoo needles puncture the skin and cause bleeding, Hepatitis is amongst the likeliest viral infections to be transmitted. You should be alarmed if the tools arent properly sterilized and the overall establishment has poor infection control standards. The most common way Hepatitis C spreads is through the shared use of contaminated needles and equipment used for drugs. Sharing personal items that may come into contact with blood such as a razor or even a toothbrush can also spread HCV.
Approximately 2.7 3.9 million Americans are currently living with a chronic form of this infection. For those who arent familiar with the effects of the Hepatitis C virus , it causes a chronic liver infection which can lead to liver damage, liver cancer, and even liver failure.
Recommended Reading: Tattoo Removal Before And After Pics
What Else Should I Expect From My Tattoo Artist
- Your tattoo artist should ask you if you have any allergies to pigments, latex, iodine before getting started.
- Your tattoo artist should be willing to answer all your questions about the procedure and any infection prevention steps taken.
- The tattoo parlour should be well-lit, clean and tidy.
- Your tattoo artist should ask you for your contact information for record-keeping purposes.
- Your tattoo artist should deny you service if you are under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
Also Check: How To Naturally Fade A Tattoo
How Tattoos Can Spread Hepatitis
Getting a tattoo requires that your skin is pierced by a needle and injected with tiny amounts of ink. The bigger the tattoo, the more injections youll need, and each injection brings the needle into contact with your blood . This isnt a problem if that needle is brand new and never came into contact with any infectious agents. But what happens if the artist already used your needle on someone else? Then you become exposed to any microbes in that persons blood, including hepatitis B, hepatitis C, and even HIV if he or she harbors those diseases.
Recommended Reading: Is Undetectable Hiv Contagious
Myth: You Can Get Hiv Or An Std From Getting A Tattoo Or Through Body Piercing
website builder Fact: This is true. There can be a risk for HIV or other blood-borne infection, like hepatitis B or C if the instruments used for piercing or tattooing are not sterilized or disinfected between clients. Any instrument used to pierce or cut the skin should be used once and thrown away. Ask the staff at the parlor about their equipment and what precautions they use. They should be willing to do this.otherwise, dont get pierced or tattooed there.
- 128 S. Thurmond StreetSheridan, Wyoming 82801
Funded in part by US Department of Health and Human Services Office of Population Affairs Title X program. The contents of this website are solely the responsibility of Reproductive Healthcare of the Big Horns and do not represent the views of the Department of Health and Human Services.
You May Like: Brooklyn Laser Tattoo Removal Inc
Tattooing With Hiv: A Slap In The Face
Yesterday, I contacted a local tattoo parlor about possibly getting some work done. I have 3 tattoos and 3 piercings. I not only want some new work, but I also want to get some touch-ups on a few of the ones I have. Yes, tattoos and piercings are addictive and once you get one, you always want another.
I have not gotten a tattoo since my HIV diagnosis so I was not really sure of how to handle the situation. Part of me waited this long because I was afraid of rejection and how it might impact me. I know plenty of people who have gotten them while HIV-positive, but I just didnt know the exact procedures that needed to be followed. I figured now was a good time due to the fact that I now have an undetectable viral load and that maybe a tattoo would not be such a shock to my system. I contacted the parlor via email and asked what their shop rates were and if they had a policy against tattooing people with HIV. I felt that it was better to be upfront about it and let them know before I just went into the shop. A part of me regrets ever asking now, but I am always honest about my diagnosis, especially when there is a higher risk involved. I did get a reply back that was short and simple. They said, No we will not. Thanks for asking and we appreciate your concern for the well being of our artists and customers.
Brian Ledford
Dont Miss: Inkology Tattoo Removal Cream Reviews
Whats The Difference Between Hiv And Aids
HIV is the virus that causes AIDS. AIDS stands for Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome. HIV and AIDS are not the same thing. And people with HIV do not always have AIDS.
HIV is the virus thats passed from person to person. Over time, HIV destroys an important kind of the cell in your immune system that helps protect you from infections. When you dont have enough of these CD4 cells, your body cant fight off infections the way it normally can.
AIDS is the disease caused by the damage that HIV does to your immune system. You have AIDS when you get dangerous infections or have a super low number of CD4 cells. AIDS is the most serious stage of HIV, and it leads to death over time.
Without treatment, it usually takes about 10 years for someone with HIV to develop AIDS. Treatment slows down the damage the virus causes and can help people stay healthy for several decades.
Recommended Reading: Chula Vista Mall Tattoo Shop
Recommended Reading: Make Tattoo Look New Again
First Know What Is The Whole Matter
Recently a news came out from Varanasi district of Uttar Pradesh that 14 people fell ill after getting tattooed. Actually, after getting the tattoo done, all the people suddenly started falling ill. After all the tests came negative, when they got their HIV test done to remove the doubt, the two people who got the tattoo turned out to be HIV infected. What the people who got the tattoos had in common was that they all got the tattoo done from the same place. The tattoo maker probably used the same needle for everyone, which caused everyone to get infected.
If I Use Drugs How Can I Reduce My Risk Of Hiv
If you inject drugs, avoid sharing needles, syringes or other injecting equipment like spoons or swabs, as this exposes you to HIV and other viruses found in the blood like hepatitis C.
In some countries, used needles can be exchanged for clean ones at pharmacies and needle exchanges. If you take heroin and share needles, you could consider joining a methadone or buprenorphine programme to reduce your risk of HIV. These opioid substitutes are swallowed as a liquid, reducing your risk of HIV as well as helping you to manage your drug addiction. A doctor or healthcare professional can advise you about the availability of needle exchanges and methadone/buprenorphine programmes in your area.
Another option may be to take pre-exposure prophylaxis . This is when you take HIV treatment before possible exposure to HIV to prevent infection. Its now recommended for people who inject drugs, although its only available in certain countries.
There are other things you can do to reduce your risk of HIV from injecting drugs:
- use sterile water to prepare drugs
- use a new or disinfected container and a new filter each time you prepare drugs
- before you inject, clean the area of your body youre going to inject into with a new alcohol swab
- safely dispose of needles and syringes after one use so you dont use them again, and other people arent at risk of accidental exposure.
If you are having a tattoo or piercing, make sure that a clean, sterilised needle is used.
You May Like: Can You Tattoo Over Psoriasis
Can I Get A Tattoo If I Have Hiv Or Herpes
Tattoos have become far less taboo in recent history. They were once considered to be a sign of criminal activity, or unprofessional. These days nearly one in six people have or will get a tattoo in their lives. This means if you want a tattoo, you should get one.
Even if you are one of the million plus people who have a blood borne disease like HIV or Herpes. This article will discuss some of the basics of getting inked when you have HIV or Herpes.
Read Also: Tattoo Removal Peachtree City Ga
Can I Become Infected With Hiv If I Inject Drugs And Share The Needles With Someone Else Without Sterilizing The Needles
We strongly recommend that you use new equipment every time you inject. You can get new equipment from Counterpoint Needle & Syringe Program at Regional HIV/AIDS Connection.
There is a possibility of becoming infected with HIV if you share injecting equipment with someone who has the virus. If HIV infected blood remains inside the needle or in the syringe and someone else then uses it to inject themselves, that blood can be flushed into the bloodstream. Sharing needles, syringes, spoons, filters or water can pass on the virus. Disinfecting equipment between uses can reduce the likelihood of transmission, but does not eliminate it.
Don’t Miss: Where To Go To Get A Tattoo Removed