Tests for HIV, Hepatitis B and Hepatitis C are being offered to customers of a tattoo and piercing shop in Newport.
Concerns were first raised after five hospital patients treated for skin infections were identified as having had a piercing carried out at Blue Voodoo.
The company operated at 92 Commercial Street, Newport, between May 2013 and February 2014, and as Blue Voodoo, Sun Tattoo Studio and Flesh Wound at 83 Commercial Street between February 2014 and January 2015.
Aneurin Bevan University Health Board is offering the tests as a precaution.
An investigation is currently being undertaken by Newport City Council’s Environmental Health Team and the business has ceased trading.
The health board said confirmed cases of skin infection could also indicate a low risk of transmission for Hepatitis B and Hepatitis C and an extremely low risk of HIV.
A simple blood test to check for Hepatitis B and C and HIV has been offered to customers that were pierced or had a tattoo between May 2013 and January 2015 at either of the Blue Voodoo’s premise.
A spokesperson for the health board said: “The risk of picking up any blood borne infections through piercing or tattooing is very small, and there is no evidence that any such transmission has occurred in this instance, but tests are being offered as a precautionary measure.
“Letters have been sent to around 550 clients identified from records recovered by Newport City Council’s Environmental Health Team. The letters will include a clinic appointment line number which will operate from Wednesday 6th May 2015
“A series of dedicated clinics with specialist nurses for all clients have been set up in the Aneurin Bevan University Health Board area. Clients over the age of 18 will be able to access testing through these clinics, or through their own GP if preferred.
“Clients that do not receive a letter by midday Friday May 8 but have had a piercing or tattoo at either premise are also invited to come forward for advise and if necessary testing. The helpline number for those who have not received a letter by midday Friday May 8 is 02920 402528.”
The appointment line and helpline will both operate as follows:
- Between Wednesday May 6 and Friday May 8: 10am to 8pm
- Saturday May 9: 10am to 6pm
- Sunday May 10: 10am to 6pm
- Between Monday May 11 and Friday May 15: 10am to 6pm