Download Protection - HEROIN IMPACT RESPONSE

Protection
Goals for 2015-16:
 To sustain and expand Naloxone access points throughout the Northern Kentucky region
 To reduce the transmission of infection disease to law enforcement by accidental needle sticks
while removing used, sometimes concealed syringes, from the arrestees or on community
property
 To provide education on Hepatitis C and HIV to high-risk individuals and to increase awareness of
the community regarding the risk of Hepatitis C and HIV due to intravenous drug use.
The protective efforts of the Heroin Impact Response Task Force are facilitated through contributing
team members; the Northern Kentucky District Health Departments, People Advocating Recovery in
Northern Kentucky (NKY PAR), Transitions Inc., Northern Kentucky Drug Strike Force, and other
community and faith-based partners.
In 2015-16, we will continue distribution of Naloxone within the community through fixed locations and
the mobile unit. We will also protect law officers from inadvertent transmission of infectious disease
due to accidental needle stick while removing discarded or concealed syringes from Northern Kentucky
communities, funds will be used to equip police officers with the necessary equipment needed for safe
removal and storage (sharps containers) of potentially contaminated needles. As an additional harm
reduction strategy, the two NKY District Health Departments will conduct initiatives to expand
awareness of risks associated with intravenous drug use in regard to Hepatitis and HIV. Activities will
include organizing community syringe cleanup campaigns, speaking at town-hall style meetings,
holding monthly organizational meetings, and distributing e-newsletters making events, resources, and
volunteer opportunities readily available. They will also conduct testing, outreach, and education to
expand awareness of risks associated with intravenous drug use in regard to Hepatitis and HIV. It is
anticipated that 720 law officers will be equipped with needle resistant gloves; 300 police cruisers will
be equipped with sharps containers; and 200 Naloxone rescue kits distributed from fixed and mobile
sites