What to know first
Harm reduction, testing, PrEP and PEP for injecting-related risk
- Do not share needles, syringes, water or preparation equipment.
- If equipment was shared within 72 hours, seek PEP assessment.
- Regular testing and PrEP can be part of a harm-reduction plan.
Sharing needles, syringes or other injecting equipment can transfer blood containing HIV. This guide focuses on reducing harm from injecting and getting care without judgment. Sexual exposure is a separate consideration; you can combine these steps with a sexual-health prevention plan.
Which equipment should never be shared?
Use new, sterile needles and syringes each time. Do not share other preparation equipment, including containers used to mix or heat drugs. Equipment can contain blood even when you cannot see it. Cleaning used equipment does not make it equivalent to a new sterile set.
Ask a healthcare provider or a local harm-reduction service about obtaining sterile supplies and disposing of used equipment safely. Check which services are actually available in your area rather than assuming every clinic provides them.
Source: CDC — preventing HIV when injecting drugs
What if I have already shared equipment?
If the exposure was within 72 hours, seek urgent assessment for PEP. Tell the provider when it happened, what equipment was shared and whether you use PrEP. Do not wait for symptoms or a routine appointment. If more time has passed, still seek a testing and follow-up plan.
What should ongoing care include?
Discuss HIV and hepatitis testing, hepatitis vaccination when appropriate, and whether oral PrEP fits your situation. PrEP does not replace sterile equipment or protect against every infection. Ask when to return for results, repeat tests and refills. If you already have HIV, a provider can help you start or continue treatment.
How can I ask for help at a clinic?
You can begin with “I would like advice about injecting safely and testing.” Bring a list of medicines and the date of any recent exposure. Ask how your information is kept private and which services the clinic can provide or refer you to. If you want to reduce or stop using substances, say what kind of support would be useful. Agree on one manageable next step and a way to contact the service again.
Risk reduction by situation
Harm-reduction services should be non-judgmental and centered on the person's safety.
| Situation | Risk-reduction step |
|---|---|
| Before use | Prepare a complete set of new sterile equipment |
| Equipment has been used | Do not pass it on; place it in a puncture-resistant container |
| Accidental sharing | Seek PEP assessment within 72 hours and arrange testing |
| Ongoing exposure | Discuss PrEP and a regular testing plan |