What should I do?
People who inject drugs can place themselves at risk of HIV, hepatitis C and other blood borne viruses. Safe injecting practices can protect against infection. You should practice the following:
Use a sterile needle and syringe (fit) for every injection. If you are unable to access a clean needle, you can get safe injecting equipment through the NSW Needle and Syringe Program or follow this Guide to Cleaning Used Syringes
Always remember to use:
- New, sterile water
- New swabs (one for the spoon, one for the injecting site)
- Clean tourniquet
- New filter
- Clean spoon
Choose a safe environment to inject - Private, clean well-lit and with running water, if possible
Wipe down all surfaces being used to prepare the drug
Wash hands before and after injecting, preferably with soapy water
Avoid all contact with anyone else’s blood, including blood you can’t see - Don’t help someone else to inject
Get rid of needles and syringes in a sharps bin of fit pack immediately after use
Use liquid bleach or another disinfectant to clean blood spills, contaminated surfaces, and equipment
Be aware of how you can manage a needlestick injury if it happens
Get regular blood-borne virus (BBV) testing
What should I avoid?
You should always avoid sharing equipment when preparing or injecting drugs, this includes:
- Needles and syringes
- Water
- Swabs
- Tourniquet
- Filter
- Spoon
Always remember to get rid of your equipment unsafely.
