Body piercing sparks health probe at Spring Valley High School
Reports of students possibly body piercing themselves with nonsterile needles at Spring Valley High School have spurred a health investigation, according to a message that Principal Bob Gerye sent to parents Wednesday.
The Clark County School District has notified the Southern Nevada Health District in case infectious body fluids were transferred among participating students at the school, on Buffalo Drive near Flamingo Road.
“While your child may not have been involved in this activity, we want all parents to talk to their children,” Gerye said. “It is likely that nonsterile (unclean) needles have been used.”
The school district advises those who participated in piercings to consult their medical provider even if there’s no visible infection.
These students could still be at risk for potentially serious viruses, such as HIV or hepatitis, and their doctor might recommend testing.
“Fortunately, nearly all children of high-school age have been vaccinated against hepatitis B,” Gerye said.
As more is known about the alleged body piercings, district officials said they will tell parents and the public.
Spring Valley parents can also call the school district at 702-799-2580 for more information on the incident as it becomes available.
For more information about the risks associated with body piercing, call the health district at 702-759-1300.
Contact reporter Trevon Milliard at tmilliard@reviewjournal.com or 702-383-0279.
