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Harm Reduction Services

The harm reduction program at CVDHD is a comprehensive, targeted approach with the aim to reduce the negative effects of substance use. Harm reduction includes support services and strategies for individuals, families and communities to be safer and healthier.

Naloxone (Narcan) Distribution and Trainings

CVDHD periodically provides overdose prevention education and naloxone kits to the general public and first responders. Naloxone (Narcan) is a medication that can reverse overdoses from opioids such as heroin and prescription painkillers.

Discarded Needle Cleanup Services

CVDHD will dispatch staff to retrieve discarded needles in public spaces and provide education on safe disposal.  Visit the following link to find out more information: http://cvdhealthdept.com/discarded-needle-clean-up/

Syringe Exchange Program

CVDHD‘s Harm Reduction Syringe Exchange Program (HRSEP) has been modeled after successful programs throughout the country and demonstrates the health department’s responsibility to control the spread of communicable diseases, as required by state law.

It uses a cost-effective approach with best practices for disease prevention by utilizing existing staff and health centers already set up for providing services to this population.

The program is open to anyone who uses injection drugs. Exchange of needles, rapid HIV testing, and rapid Hepatitis C testing will be provided anonymously; however, other health services, such as blood tests for hepatitis C, HIV, STD’s , pregnancy tests, and immunizations will be provided confidentially.

Other services offered include:

  • Referrals for substance use disorder treatment
  • Risk reduction counseling ( wound care and information about safe injection practices)
  • Tools to prevent HIV, hepatitis, and STDs including condoms, vaccinations, and counseling

All participants are required to agree to a list of Participants Rights and Responsibilities. Items covered by this list include safe disposal of contaminated equipment, and refraining from drug use on Health Department property. Violations can result in dismissal from the program.

Participant Rights and Responsibilities

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A data summary of Harm Reduction activity can be found here: HRSEP Data Summary

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