State looking into skin infections of tattoo parlor patrons

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (AP) - The Illinois Department of Public Health has yet to name the tattoo parlor where two people who received tattoos may have developed skin infections.

According to the health department, the two adults reported their skin infections to the same Springfield medical clinic earlier this year. The reports prompted health officials to launch an investigation and alert health-care providers statewide to look for additional cases.

Department spokeswoman Melaney Arnold said Tuesday that after being notified about the suspect tattoo parlor, officials performed an inspection but weren't able to determine if the infections originated at the establishment.

Arnold said the lack of confirmation was the reason neither the tattoo parlor nor the artist was identified. She said the inspection did result in the business implementing procedures to reduce the risk of infection.

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Information from: The State Journal-Register, http://www.sj-r.com