Underground tattoo industry ‘is increasing the risk of hepatitis’

Testing for hepatitis C on groups most at risk is one weapon to improve diagnosis in the UAE and around the world.

Those who share needles to inject drugs, or have tattoos and piercings done in unsterile parlours are at high risk.

While getting a tattoo is not legally penalised in the UAE, it is forbidden in Islam after a fatwa issued by the General Authority of Islamic Affairs and Endowments, and considered a form of self-injury.

Despite this, an underground industry of illegal tattoo artists in Dubai is thriving, with many operating without regulations and possibly exposing their clients to hepatitis C.

One tattooist in Dubai with a stream of clients said: “It would be better to legalise tattooing and get proper training and certification for every tattoo artist to help to reduce the risk of infections like hepatitis C.

“They should undergo a full check and certification for sanitation, like any medical centre. But while it is an underground industry in the UAE, this won’t happen.

“Some guys don’t know the first thing about hygiene, sanitation and keeping instruments sterile.

“Everything we use is disposable except for the machine, and that is regularly cleaned and sterilised between appointments. We would welcome full checks.”

A sterilisation machine costs $600 (Dh2,200) but some tattooists do not want to pay or do not understand contamination risks.

People seeking a tattoo overseas are also being warned to avoid artists without good reputations and hygiene.

“We know most people are going to India or other countries for tattoos and piercings, and they are carrying an extra risk of hepatitis C,” said Dr Maryam Al Khatri, president of the Emirates Gastroenterology and Hepatology Society.

“They often have no idea of the background of the tattooist or if the area is clean. They are taking the same risk as a drug addict who is injecting. It is the responsibility of the municipality to check on these places in the UAE.”