Human T-lymphotropic virus type III (HTLV-III) is spread among intravenous drug abusers primarily through the practice of needle sharing. Public health authorities in New York are currently considering the lifting of some legal restrictions on the availability of sterile needles as a strategy for preventing acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS). The Street Research Unit of the New York State Division of Substance Abuse Services which monitors street drug activity has reported 2 recent examples of free sterile needles in New York City. The 1st involves a modified 2-for-1 sale in which needle sellers include an extra needle with the sale of a complete syringe and needle. The latter combination typically sells for US$2 but the complete syringe with an extra needle costs only US$2.50. The extra needle can be used if the 1st needle becomes clogged when the drug user is preparing to inject. Because it is just before injection that a drug user is most likely to experience withdrawal or craving symptoms and to use any needle available the availability of a 2nd needle at this point may be an important way to keep the drug user from using someone elses needle. The 2nd source of free needles is drug dealers who often include a free needle and syringe with US$25 or $50 bags of heroin. Both these marketing tactics indicate an increased demand for clean needles by intravenous drug users in New York City. They strengthen the argument that a meaningful reduction in the risks of AIDS is possible in this population.
No takes yet. Share an insight, caveat, or question.
Jarlais et al. (1985) studied this question.