User:Raymondtotah/sandbox

Sharing needles is one of the most common ways to spread blood borne pathogens. These pathogens include HIV, AIDS, Hepatitis B and Hepatitis C. Needle exchange programs have the ability to reduce the spread of blood borne pathogens in high risk population like drug abusers. A new program recently started in Southern Nevada aims to reduce the spread of disease in this population.

Trac-B Exchange - Southern Nevada Harm Reduction Program was approved in early 2017 to help reduce the spread of HIV in "People Who Inject Drugs". In Nevada, the sharing of needles for drug injections has led to an increase in the spread of HIV and hepatitis B and C. In an effort to reduce the spread of blood borne pathogens, Southern Nevada installed vending machines to give access to sterile needles to those using them for drug injections. Individuals who use these vending machines are required to register with Trac-B and are allowed 2 boxes a week. The boxes contain sterile needles as well as other supplies necessary to reduce the risk of spreading blood borne pathogens. If this pilot program is successful in reducing the spread of blood borne pathogens, we may see programs like this spread to other parts of the country.