Tattooing may be ancient, but safety questions remain

The tattoo ink that goes by the brand name of “A Thousand Virgins” was found to be contaminated with risky bacteria.

Examining the bodies of the deceased who have had tattoos for decades has shown that up to 90 per cent of the ink has disappeared from the skin, he said. Shades G1, G2 and G3 have been recalled.

Currently, there is no specific laboratory evidence matching the microorganisms found in A Thousand Virgins tattoo inks to any recognized infection cases. They are saying that these contaminated inks are spreading more commonly in the black markets and in the long run, these inks can cause serious health hazards.

The US Food and Drug Administration is aware of the ongoing recall. The plastic bag must be sealed or tied off, to prevent leakage. You may require antibiotics, hospitalization or surgery.

Especially for people who have pre-existing medical conditions like heart or circulatory disease and diabetes as well as those with weak immune systems, injecting the contaminated bottles into the skin poses a great threat. In addition, consumers and tattoo artists should purchase inks from reputable manufacturers who source their ink ingredients appropriately and can attest to using good manufacturing practices.

The area can be permanently scarred even after the infection has healed. If you have used these inks and adverse events occur, contact the manufacturer and the FDA. There could also be raised blemishes in the tattoo that are pink, red or purple in color. Share your tattoo experiences in the comments section below.

Do not to dilute the inks they use with tap, distilled, filtered water, reverse osmosis water or non-sterile water, which may put it at risk for contamination.

People can tell the FDA about infected tattoos through the agency’s website or by calling 1-800-332-1088 to request a pre-addressed, postage-paid form. Bottles are marked as Lot #129 with an expiration date of 1/16. WPTV reports that the Florida Department of Health is now investigating the outbreak.

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