Syringe Services Program

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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.