CLINICS are continuing for people requesting blood tests in the aftermath of public health concerns over a tattoo and piercing parlour in Newport.

And a health specialist running the clinics has sought to reassure people who are concerned about coming forward or attending an appointment.

So far, 651 clients of the business - which traded as Blue Voodoo, Sun Tattoo Studio, and Flesh Wound from two premises on the city's Commercial Street from May 2013 to January this year - have attended clinic appointments for precautionary health checks.

The checks, involving tests for liver diseases hepatitis B and C, and for HIV, were initially offered to 550 known clients of the business earlier this month after it was revealed that five cases of a severe skin infection had been linked to it.

A further 140 known clients have since been sent invitation letters for a test, and scores of others not previously identified as clients have also come forward.

Four further cases of serious skin disease have also been linked to the premises.

Clinic slots are still available and anyone who had a piercing or a tattoo at the premises is being encouraged to come forward.

There have been instances of missed appointments and concern voiced on social media by some worried at the prospect of a test.

The risk of contracting hepatitis B and C through a piercing or a tattoo procedure is considered very low, and for HIV the risk is deemed extremely low. There is no recorded instance of HIV being contracted in this way.

But for all three diseases the symptoms can remain undetected for years, meaning that a test is recommended.

Wendy Warren, Aneurin Bevan University Health Board's head of planning (civil contingencies), said turn-out for clinics has been good, with nurses providing one-to-one support.

"We've tried to create an atmosphere that puts people at ease, and they don't need to wait - they are seen by a clinician straightaway and there are nurses trained to answer all questions and give reassurance," she said.

Heather Lewis, consultant in health protection for Public Health Wales, said the response is "a credit to the hard work of professional NHS staff at clinics and on helplines."

"They are ready to help and to listen, and the blood test they are offering is quick and easy. It could really help to put minds at rest if people are worried," she said.

* Anyone who had a tattoo or a piercing at the parlour, or if anyone who has missed a test appointment, can call 029 2040 2528 to arrange or rearrange an appointment.