Oct. 19 Public Health Update

body
art inspections

Tattoos and piercings are as popular as ever.
Choosing a reputable and inspected body art or tattoo facility can make an
incredible difference in your health.
Mesa County Health Department inspects all
facilities that administer tattoos and piercings annually to ensure a safe and
clean environment.
Our inspectors check facilities for anything
that could potentially spread disease, such as:

Facilities that have been inspected by Mesa
County Health Department officials will have certification in the building.
If you notice your piercer or artist isn’t
following proper procedures or if the environment is unsanitary do not follow through with your tattoo
or piercing.
HIV, Hepatitis C, Methicillin-resistant
Staphylococcus Aureus (MRSA) and any other bloodborne illnesses can be
contracted during the tattoo and/or piercing process if your artist does not
follow standards.
Never let
a person tattoo or pierce you in their home.
Proper care of your tattoo or piercing is vital
in reducing risk of infection. Be sure to follow aftercare instructions
provided by your piercer or artist.
If you aren’t sure about a facility or would
like inspection information about a facility, call the Mesa County Health
Department at 970-248-6900.

flu
vaccinations

Flu season is just around the corner and residents should take preventive measures to avoid getting sick.
Last flu season, Mesa County had 122 cases of influenza and the state had a total of 3,444.
Getting the flu shot protects not only yourself but those around you with immune-compromised conditions.
Symptoms of influenza can include fever, chills, sweats, headache, fatigue, coughing and body aches.
Avoid getting influenza this flu season, which can last until spring, by getting your flu vaccination and practicing good handwashing techniques.
Flu shots are available at the Mesa County Health Department by appointment. Call 248-6900 for more information.