Pubdate: Sat, 23 Sep 2006
Source: Press of Atlantic City, The (NJ)
Copyright: 2006 South Jersey Publishing Co.
Contact:  http://www.pressofatlanticcity.com/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/29
Author: Elizabeth Wehrman
Note: Wehrman lives in LeClaire, IA, not IN as printed in paper
Bookmark: http://www.mapinc.org/find?143 (Hepatitis)

NEEDLE PROGRAMS AVERT DISEASE

I'm saddened to read that needle-exchange bills have stalled in the 
New Jersey Legislature for more than two years. Just imagine the 
potential hepatitis C or HIV infections that could have been prevented.

My 33 years as a nurse, seven as a street nurse, have proved to me 
that syringe exchange is an invaluable public-health strategy. 
Decrease needle sharing, and blood-borne diseases are averted. 
Treatment access is facilitated and supported when requested.

Sound science declares syringe access successful in disease 
prevention while not "condoning" or increasing drug use.

Good luck, New Jersey.

Elizabeth Wehrman

LeClaire, Ind.
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MAP posted-by: Beth Wehrman