The Lexington-Fayette County Health Department’s needle-exchange program will be held 1:30-4 p.m. Fridays at 650 Newtown Pike starting tomorrow, Sept. 4. The free, anonymous and confidential program is designed to reduce the spread of HIV and hepatitis in Lexington. Used needles must be brought in to receive clean needles.
The Bluegrass Region, which covers 17 counties including Fayette County, has seen HIV numbers grow from 75 cases in 2011 to 107 in 2013 (the most recent numbers available). Additionally, Kentucky has the nation’s highest per capita rate for Hepatitis C.
“This is a public health issue for Lexington, and our program is designed to help stop the spread of these diseases,” said Dr. Rice Leach, Lexington’s commissioner of health. “This program is going to work, and it is going to do good things for Lexington.”
In addition to free needles, the program will offer testing for HIV and other sexually transmitted infections, educational materials and a safe disposal of dirty needles. Referrals and counseling can be made available for those who test positive for HIV or who are seeking drug treatment or other health and social services.
Lexington’s needle-exchange program is possible because the 2015 Kentucky General Assembly enacted legislation allowing health departments to operate exchange programs. Lexington’s needle-exchange has been approved by the Lexington-Fayette County Board of Health and Lexington-Fayette Urban County Council.
Lexington’s needle-exchange has received national support.
“We’re honored to provide training and technical assistance to Lexington-Fayette County and appreciate the support and partnership of the state health department and Gov. Steve Beshear’s office in ensuring thoughtful implementation of programs that will protect and improve the health of Kentucky communities,” said Emma Roberts, capacity building services manager of the Harm Reduction Coalition, a national organization that promotes the health and dignity of individuals and communities impacted by drug use.
For additional information, visit www.lexingtonhealthdepartment.org.
From LFHC