What are the chances of getting hepatitis from a

[Johanna]

tattoo? I'm getting a tattoo soon, and I am positive that I want one. The only thing I'm worried about is getting hepatitis- a blood disease that I've heard could be easily passed along when getting a tattoo- much easier to get than AIDS. I'm very, very nervous about this.Does anyone know what the chances are of getting hepatitis from a tattoo? Do you know anyone who's gotten it from a tattoo? Or maybe you did? I just need all the information i can get about hepatitis, how it is contracted, etc. The place I'm going for my tattoo says that the tattoo artists have been vaccinated with hepatitis A and B shots. So that being said, how much of a chance is there? And isn't there a hepatitis C?

[ursamaj2]

Hepatitis is a "blood borne" (meaning carried in the blood), illness. The reason why there is a high incidence of "hepatitis" from getting "tattoo's" is not the "operator" who is doing the tattooing, but the fact that some places where tattoos are done do not use proper cleaning technique. The hepatitis is spread from "client to client", via the small droplets of blood on the dirty needles. However, if the institution that you are going to for your tattooing is using proper sterilization techniques then you have nothing to worry about.

[legendatz]

One can get very serious and painful tattoo infections from a needle that hasn’t been properly sterilized, even if you’ve had 10 successful tattoos before without any complications.Nearly all complaints of tatoo infections today are from unlicensed practitioners, so patronizing approved tattoo shops should eliminate this serious concern.While often a concern of “tattoo virgins,” anyone can get an infection, mo matter how much ink they have. Infections, and very especially resistant strains of Staphylococcus aureus (or simply staff), are a major concern that can be simply and effectively at bay by making sure the artist is using properly sterilized equipment.It is not unreasonable or rude or un-cool for you to ask to see their licence – they are usually required to be up on the wall somewhere customers can see.

[Noel Boyd]

Hi Johanna, the chances of contracting a disease from tattoos is pretty rare. Do ensure that the tattooist uses new needles for your tattoo and ensure that his equipment is sterilized. It'll help if his shop/studio is clean too.I hope this helps. All the best for the tattoo.- www.noelboyd.com