Since HIV and hepatitis C are blood borne viruses (viruses that exist in and are transported via the bloodstream), any direct blood-to-blood contact is a risk for HIV and hepatitis C transmission. Sharing needles or works (cotton, cookers, water, etc.) presents a significant risk for transmitting these blood borne viruses. Whenever possible, it is best for each person to use their own needles and works. Click here to learn about needle safety.
Needle exchange sites have been set up to trade in used needles and get new ones. There are four state funded Needle Exchange Sites in Massachusetts located in Boston, Cambridge, Northampton, and Provincetown. If you are not near a Needle Exchange site, or cannot get to one, there is another way to get clean syringes. The Pharmacy Access Bill allows individuals 18 and older to purchase needles at a pharmacy without a doctors prescription. To learn more about needle exchange programs or the Pharmacy Access Bill in Massachusetts click here or call the Pharmacy Access Hotline at 800-988-5209.
Proper disposal of used needles is important as well. Used needles should not be disposed of in the garbage since this creates a risk for anyone handling the trash who may get stuck by an infected needle. Sharps containers are heavy-duty containers used for disposal of needles, and can be acquired through some pharmacies. If a sharps container is not available, an empty plastic liquid detergent or bleach bottle can be used as well. These should then be turned into a designated needle disposal site. For information about about acquiring sharps containers, needle disposal sites, or any other questions related to needle handling and safety, please call our Pharmacy Access Hotline at 800-988-5209.
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