Focused hepatitis C testing on the most at risk groups is one weapon in use to improve population diagnosis around the world, and the UAE.
Those who inject drugs using shared needles, or have tattoos and piercings in unsterile environments are putting themselves in the high risk category of infection.
Whilst getting a tattoo is not legally penalised in the UAE, it is forbidden in Islam by virtue of a Fatwa issued by the Official Fatwa Centre at 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 rules or regulations and potentially exposing their clients to hepatitis c.
One tattooist in Dubai with a constant stream of clients and a waiting list for those wishing to be inked, said legalising the industry would help make it safer and easier to regulate.
“It would be better to legalise tattooing and get proper training and certification for every tattoo artist to help reduce the risk of infections like hepatitis C, †said the tattooist, who did not want to be named.
“We have proper conduct in our operation. Everything we use is disposable, only the machine and that is regularly cleaned and sterilised between appointments.
“We would welcome full checks and audits as it would help clean up the industry, particularly here in Dubai. â€
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