Czech Republic Launches Automatic Syringe Machines To Curb Spread Of HIV, Other Diseases Among IDUs

Main Category: HIV / AIDS
Also Included In: Alcohol / Addiction / Illegal Drugs
Article Date: 05 Jun 2008 - 9:00 PDT

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The Czech Republic recently installed two automatic syringe machines in the capital of Prague in an effort to curb the spread of HIV and other bloodborne diseases among injection drug users, CTK/Prague Daily Monitor reports. The machines -- the first to be installed in the country -- provide a syringe and disinfection materials for 20 Czech koruna, or about $1.25. A second packet for 30 koruna, or about $1.90, also includes clean water, vitamin C and a special substance to dilute drugs. The project was launched by the group PROGRESSIVE to provide constant access to clean syringes, even if pharmacies are closed. "The use of clean syringes prevents the spreading of infectious diseases, such as hepatitis" and HIV, Vojtech Janouskovec, head of PROGRESSIVE's No Biohazard program, said. If the pilot project in Prague is successful, it could be expanded to other parts of the country, CTK/Prague Daily Monitor reports (CTK/Prague Daily Monitor, 6/3).

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