Pubdate: Wed, 14 May 2008 Source: Victoria Times-Colonist (CN BC) Copyright: 2008 Times Colonist Contact: http://www.canada.com/victoriatimescolonist/ Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/481 Author: Kim Toombs NEEDLE EXCHANGE NEEDS A PERMANENT HOME At one time, harm reduction was considered a radical solution to health and social issues facing drug users. However it should no longer be considered radical to distribute or exchange injection equipment, as it is a proven and rational method to prevent major health catastrophes. Despite the Vancouver Island Health Authority's inability to find a solution to our current needle-exchange crisis, Victoria must have a fixed-site needle exchange. With the closure of the needle exchange, many communities who already face perilous situations will be launched into crisis. VIHA has the ability to house the needle exchange immediately in the building on Pandora Avenue. As someone who has worked in harm reduction in Victoria for many years, I am aware that a consistent mobile exchange service has been needed for years, but only to augment the overwhelmed, underfunded fixed site. The fixed site is essential, as it provides confidential, vital health care to communities isolated by discrimination and abuse. Without it we could very well see HIV, hepatitis C and other infections skyrocket as the once confidential indoor space is now located on the street for all to see. Expect to see an increase in discarded injection equipment. With no accessible public washrooms or appropriate housing, expect many other problems to get worse. We should be demanding that VIHA immediately relocate the needle exchange to its new home on Pandora Avenue. Kim Toombs Victoria - --- MAP posted-by: Jay Bergstrom