PHE alert over cleansing spray linked to infection after body piercings (16 September 2016)

Public Health England (PHE) is warning those who have had body piercings in recent months to stop using a product which may be linked to a higher risk of infection.

The risks of an unsafe cleansing spray provided by piercing studios across the country for aftercare use has been flagged up, as it is thought it may be linked to cases of severe infection.

The product has been linked to cases of serious infection and is provided by piercing studios in many parts of the country.

The product a 100ml bottled aftercare saline spray and is manufactured by Lion Care Products Ltd. However, there is no consistent brand or label being used on the product. Some labels, using only black and white lettering, will have the manufacturer’s trading name, Body Art Supplies – or may carry the Lion Care name.

Other studios’ labels will use neither, but possibly will use just their own studio name or brand on the label. If unsure, people should stop using the spray immediately and return it to their local studio.

The spray may be linked to 26 cases of a severe infection – Pseudomonas aeruginosa – across England. Investigations are ongoing and PHE continue to monitor for further cases.

To date all have been ear infections, with the majority of cases occurring in the East Midlands and South East of England.

However, the product is known to have been distributed widely across England therefore more cases are likely. The product has also been distributed in Scotland, but to a much lesser extent.

The cases have occurred in people where piercings were undertaken between mid-July and late August 2016. However, there may be other more recent cases which have not yet been reported.

People with body piercings should be aware of the signs of infection, including redness, soreness, swelling, discharge and raised temperature.

Dr Richard Puleston, Consultant at PHE, said:

“Infection is not uncommon following piercings, but the particular type of bacteria linked to this outbreak can cause severe infection.

“It is important that people take extra care in ensuring any piercing is properly cleansed and to follow professional advice available from local environmental health teams.

“If people are concerned about possible infection, they are strongly advised to seek medical attention urgently.

“PHE is continuing to investigate and is liaising with the appropriate authorities in the devolved administrations, to ensure that the contaminated product is removed from piercing studios – and, wherever possible, clients are contacted by their studio and advised to stop using the product.”

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