Information for People who Inject Drugs
People who inject drugs or have previously injected them are important
clients of Clinic 275. Injecting drug users are at risk of the same
sexually transmitted diseases as those who don't inject, but because of
the risks associated with sharing needles or other equipment there is a
higher risk of infections such as hepatitis
C, hepatitis B and HIV.
Because of these risks, you will probably be offered tests for these
conditions each time you come to Clinic 275, and the clinic is able to
perform regular check-ups for people who continue to use injected drugs.
If you know that you are positive for hepatitis C already, Clinic 275
offers you a follow-up service if you are
not already seeing a doctor about this condition.
When you come to Clinic 275 for a check-up, you will be asked a number
of questions that relate to your injecting drug use, such as when was the
last time you used, how old were you when you first used, and so on. These
questions are asked for purposes of research, to help us understand the
risks associated with injecting drugs, and therefore best advise you about
the risks you personally face.
Injecting drug users who have not been vaccinated against hepatitis B
are offered free vaccination
(unless a blood test shows pre-existing immunity to infection).
There is also a free needle exchange service at Clinic 275.
People can
bring in used needles for safe disposal and the clinic will provide free needles and syringes
in exchange. Staff can advise on how to most safely use
injecting equipment. |
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