The Health Unit has issued a public notice of the risk of infection for people who received a piercing at Northern Tattoo Ink North Bay, also known as Northern Custom Tattoo Piercing, between June 30, 2021, and Nov. 30, 2023.
The business is located at 68 Lakeshore Dr.
"The health unit has identified improper sterilization of tools that do not meet public health standards, meaning the operator may have used tools and jewellery in its piercing practices that could pose health risks to the client," says a news release.
"Improper sterilization practices have the potential to cause skin infections from bacteria, and in rare circumstances, may spread blood-borne infections such as hepatitis B, hepatitis C, and, to an even lesser extent, human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)."
The health unit emphasizes that no infection or illness has been linked to this situation at this time.
"This notice is not directed to individuals who only received tattoos from this facility."
If you have received piercing services at Northern Custom Tattoo, speak to a family physician, nurse practitioner, or walk-in clinic about your risk of infection, including hepatitis B, hepatitis C, and HIV.
Testing is free for Ontario residents with an OHIP number.
Additional information is available on the Health Unit’s website at www.myhealthunit.ca.
