NILES, Mich. – A local body art facility in Niles may have exposed customers to other customers’ blood due to improper sterilization of metal forceps used during piercing procedures.
According to the Berrien County
Health Department, Paparazzi Tattoo & Body Piercing may have exposed
customers to hepatitis C, hepatitis B, or HIV. As a result, the tattoo
shop’s operating license has been suspended.
Customers who have gotten their navel, tongue, nipples or genitals pierced through February of 2020 are recommended to receive blood tests for hepatitis C, hepatitis B and HIV. There are no concerns with ear or nose piercings or tattoos that were performed there.
While the Berrien County Health Department’s investigation has not yet identified any cases related to procedures at Paparazzi Tattoo & Body Piercing, people with viruses such as hepatitis B, hepatitis C or HIV may not have symptoms for many years. Some of these diseases are permanent and can be fatal.
Berrien County Health Department made the following statement in a news release:
“The Berrien County Health Department is working to notify individuals with records of having received the piercings in question to provide bloodborne pathogen testing recommendations and guidance. Individuals seeking testing are encouraged to visit their healthcare provider, but are also able to get tested at the Berrien County Health Department offices in Niles on Tuesdays and Thursdays or Benton Harbor on Mondays or Thursdays if they do not have a primary care provider.”
The Health Department is continuing to work in collaboration with state and regional public health partners during the investigation. If you have concerns and questions, contact the Health Department at 1-800-815-5485.
More information is also available at the Berrien County Health Department website.
