Partly cloudy skies. Low 62F. NW winds at 10 to 20 mph, decreasing to less than 5 mph..

Partly cloudy skies. Low 62F. NW winds at 10 to 20 mph, decreasing to less than 5 mph.

IPSWICH — A syringe services program for town residents will begin next week.

The Ipswich Board of Health authorized the program in June after public meetings with representatives of North Shore Health Project and a state public health official.

After deciding to go ahead with the plan, the Massachusetts Department of Public Health selected One Stop, a program of the North Shore Health Project, as service provider with DPH funding this effort.

“We encourage all to take advantage of this service, which will reduce the spread of diseases and improve the overall health of our community,” Board of Health Chair Susan C. Hubbard said.

One Stop representatives will be in Ipswich each Tuesday offering free, confidential harm reduction services at one of three locations: the Ipswich Housing Authority parking lot near The Open Door pantry, the Ipswich MBTA commuter rail lot on Peatfield Street, and the Hammatt Street municipal parking lot.

Times and locations will vary each week; those interested in using the service may call or text One Stop’s confidential line at 978-515-0455. Anyone homebound or with a transportation issue may contact One Stop for at-home service.

Obtain sterile needles and syringes free of cost

Dispose used needles, syringes and sharps

Be connected to testing for hepatitis C, HIV, and other sexually transmitted infections

Have access to Narcan (naloxone)

Persons who inject drugs can substantially reduce their risk of getting and transmitting HIV, viral hepatitis, and other blood-borne infections by using a sterile (new) needle and syringe for every injection. More than 40 communities have approved such a program. The DPH supports programs where those who inject drugs can access sterile needles and syringes through syringe services programs.

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