‘People Are Going To Die’: Orange County Needle Exchange To Shut Down After It Was Denied Permit
The city cited the increase in discarded syringes in the Santa Ana Civic Center as a reason to stop supporting the program.
Los Angeles Times:
Orange County’s Only Needle Exchange Shuts Down After Santa Ana Denies Permit
Orange County's first and only needle exchange program has shut down after Santa Ana city officials denied its permit application, a move some local advocacy groups and the state's leading public health agency say could negatively affect public welfare. However, the city contends the move was necessary because of an increased number of discarded syringes in the Santa Ana Civic Center, for which it says the needle exchange was at fault. (Brazil, 2/1)
Orange County Register:
Orange County’s Only Needle Exchange Shuts Down; Advocates Fear Increased HIV Transmission
The needle exchange’s founders warn that the demise of the program likely will lead to increased transmission of HIV, Hepatitis B, Hepatitis C and other diseases that spread when drug users share needles. Numerous studies have shown that needle exchanges lower the rate at which those diseases are contracted. “This action (by the city) will prevent people from getting the resources to help keep them safe,” said Miriam McQuade, 26, an Orange resident who co-founded the needle exchange.(Graham, 2/1)