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The Nottawasaga OPP is doing an opioid public awareness campaign with a focus on safe disposal.
The Simcoe Muskoka District Health Unit has developed a needle exchange program, which provides supplies free of charge to intravenous drug users.
No identifying information is required.
Blood-borne diseases, including HIV and Hepatitis B and C, are a significant risk for those who use drugs intravenously.
The OPP says that providing clean new, sterile needles, helps to mitigate the risks involved.
The services provided by the SMDHU include:
– Injection kits, including new needles, spoons (cookers), alcohol swabs, sterile water, tourniquets, and when requested, vitamin C.
– Safe smoking kits, including glass stems or bowl pipes, screens, and mouthpieces.
– Sharps containers for the safe disposal of used needles, stems, pipes, and other substances and equipment.
– Information about safer substance use and community supports.
For the nearest Needle Exchange Program in the South Simcoe area, please contact the Simcoe Muskoka District Health Unit, 25 King Street South, Suite 2, Cookstown. For more information, click here.
The safe disposal of used supplies decreases the chance of these items being left in public spaces. Used supplies, including needles, stems, pipes, and other items may be dropped off in sharps containers or other safe containers at any health unit location or needle exchange partner location.
To learn more about where you can dispose of used supplies visit: www.smdhu.org/disposalofusedsupplies or call Simcoe Muskoka District Health Unit at 705-721-7520 toll-free at 1-877-721-7520 to speak with a nurse about harm reduction or needle exchange.