HIV risks associated with tattooing , piercing , scarification and acupuncture

The Issue and Why It’s Important Information on tattooing and piercing is typically included in screening interviews of prospective blood donors and can be used as a reason for deferral given possible associations with the transmission of a number of blood-borne infectious diseases.(3) Tattooing involves piercing of the skin with one or more needles that permanently imprint one or more pigments into the dermis, usually forming a recognizable pattern or design. Tattoos performed by professionals involve the use of electric tattoo machines, using up to 14 solid-bore needles and special dyes. Amateur tattooing may involve only a single sewing needle or