Syringe Services Program

Click to enlarge.

Syringe Services Programs (SSPs), which may also be referred to as syringe exchange programs, needle exchange programs and needle-syringe programs, are community-based programs that provide FREE access to sterile needles and syringes, facilitating safe disposal of used needles and syringes. Additionally they provide comprehensive harm reduction services such as:

• Sterile needles, syringes, and injection equipment
• Safe disposal containers for needles and syringes
• HIV and hepatitis testing and linkage to treatment
• Overdose prevention education and how to use Naloxone, a medication used to reverse overdose
• Referral to substance use disorder treatment, including medication- assisted treatment
• Referral to medical, mental health, and social services
• Tools to prevent HIV, STDs, and hepatitis including counseling, condoms, and vaccinations

To request syringe services call (978) 743-9636.

People who inject drugs can substantially reduce their risk of getting and transmitting HIV, viral hepatitis and other blood borne infections by using a sterile needle and syringe for every injection. SSPs are an effective component of a comprehensive, integrated approach to HIV prevention among people who inject drugs. These programs have also been associated with reduce risk for infection with hepatitis C virus. Most offer other prevention and services and provide linkage to critical services and programs. Research shows that people who inject drugs are 5 times more likely to enter treatment than those who do not utilize syringe services.

What is SSANA?

Syringe Service Alliance of the Nashua Area (SSANA) is a syringe services program (SSP) that services the Greater Nashua Region. It is a community-based public health program that provides comprehensive harm reduction services, benefitting its communities served through the reduction of:

• New HIV and viral hepatitis infections by decreasing the sharing of syringes and other injection equipment
• Drug use and increase entry into Substance Use Disorder treatment
• Needlestick injuries among first responders and the public
• Overdose deaths by teaching people who inject drugs (PWID) how to prevent and respond to drug overdose

For SSANA program information call (603) 816-0595.