Report blames body art for two deaths

BODY-PIERCING has claimed two lives in Europe in the past six months, as well being blamed for causing a range of viral infections such as hepatitis and HIV, according to an EU report.

It has also triggered a number of bacterial infections, including impetigo, toxic shock syndrome, tetanus, venereal ulcer, tuberculosis and leprosy.

A report on the dangers associated with body piercing and tattoos has prompted the European Commission to issue a warning that both practices can be a risky business leading to illness and death.