Pubdate: Mon, 05 May 2008
Source: Intelligencer, The (CN ON)
Copyright: 2008, Osprey Media Group Inc.
Contact:  http://www.intelligencer.ca/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/2332

SPRING CAN BRING HEALTH RISKS IN FORM OF USED SYRINGES

Spring brings green grass and flowers but it can also  uncover some 
unwanted items, including used syringes,  warns the health unit.

The needles can carry HIV and hepatitis B and C viruses  and can be 
left behind by intravenous drug users.

"Children can come across a used needle in a park or  other public 
place," said Bill Sherlock, a program  manager with the Hastings and 
Prince Edward Counties  Health Unit. "Teach your children what a 
syringe looks  like and advise them never to touch one and to let an 
adult know if they see one."

Being jabbed by a syringe is called a "needle-stick  injury" and 
should be treated as a medical emergency,  he said.

Property owners have the legal responsibility for  removing used 
syringes but they can get assistance from  the health unit or police, 
Sherlock said. The health  unit can provide a 'sharps' container to 
those who need  one.

The health unit said the people should follow certain  steps if they 
come across a used needle:

Do not touch the needle.

If you do not have a sharps container, call for help at  the local 
police department or the health unit at  613-966-5500. If the call is 
made before or after  health unit business hours, follow the prompts 
and call  the after-hours number.

Do not pick up the needle with your hands - use tongs  or pliers instead.

Never put a needle into the garbage or recycling.

If you are stuck by a needle:

Allow the wound to bleed freely.

Wash thoroughly with soap and warm water.

Disinfect the wound (for example, with an alcohol swab).

Cover the wound with a bandage.

Seek immediate medical attention at an emergency  department. You may 
need testing and post-exposure  medication.
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MAP posted-by: Jay Bergstrom