The tragic story of a 31-year-old man who died in Mexico highlights the dangers of swimming too soon after getting a tattoo.
Many people find it appealing to get a tattoo while on vacation as a memento of their time away. However, this decision can have serious consequences, particularly when it comes to swimming.
After getting a tattoo, it is advisable to avoid submerging the area in water for at least two weeks. Unfortunately, a man who ignored this advice contracted a fatal infection shortly after swimming in the ocean, according to the British Medical Journal (BMJ) Case reports.
The victim developed vibrio vulnificus septic shock after swimming in the ocean just five days after getting a tattoo featuring a crucifix and praying hands.
Despite being advised to follow a two-week healing regimen, the man entered the saltwater of the Gulf of Mexico, a common practice in warmer climates where water can harbor harmful bacteria. Such bacteria can easily enter the body through fresh tattoos, which are akin to open wounds.
After his swim, the man suffered from high fever, chills, and a rash near the tattoo site. His condition worsened in the hospital, where medical professionals diagnosed him with a severe bacterial infection caused by Vibrio vulnificus.
The man was particularly susceptible to the infection due to pre-existing health issues like cirrhosis of the liver, which weakened his immune system.
Despite life support efforts, the man passed away two weeks after getting the tattoo.
This unfortunate incident serves as a critical warning for those with new tattoos to avoid water immersion. While gentle cleaning is permissible, Healthline advises against submerging a new tattoo due to infection risks.
The health website states: “Like with any open wound — which is essentially what a new tattoo is — submerging your tattoo could potentially expose it to harmful bacteria in the water. Infections can range from mild to severe.
“The risk may be lower in the heavily chlorinated water of a swimming pool than in open water, like a lake or ocean, but chlorine doesn’t kill all the bacteria.”
In essence, adhere to the aftercare instructions provided by your tattoo artist to ensure proper healing.