Harm Reduction and Syringe Service Programs

Harm Reduction and Syringe Service Programs

Harm Reduction and Overdose Prevention

Harm reduction is a compassionate and evidence-based approach to addressing public health challenges, particularly the prevention of HIV and HCV among people who use substances. It seeks to minimize the negative consequences associated with substance or drug use.

HIV prevention services grounded in harm reduction prioritize the dignity, autonomy, and health of individuals, meeting them where they are rather than imposing judgment or unrealistic expectations. These services include a variety of interventions designed to reduce the transmission of HIV or HCV and improve overall health outcomes, such as the provision of sterile syringes, overdose education and prevention, access to pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) and antiretroviral therapy (ART), HIV and HCV testing, and education on safer practices.

By fostering trust and creating accessible, non-stigmatizing environments, harm reduction services empower individuals to make informed choices about their health. This approach not only saves lives but also contributes to the broader goals of public health by reducing HIV and HCV incidence, addressing inequities, and promoting community well-being.

Services provided include but not limited to:

  • Syringe distribution and disposal of used syringes.
  • Education about and distribution of Naloxone and other anti-overdose medications to prevent and reverse overdoses.
  • Referral and navigation to care and treatment for Substance-Use Disorder, including Medication-Assisted Therapy (MAT)

Naloxone (Narcan) and Overdose Prevention:

Opioid poisoning or overdose is a leading cause of preventable death in Alameda County. Naloxone is a medication that can reverse the effects of opioid poisoning such as slowed or stopped breathing. When administered promptly, naloxone restores normal breathing and can be a lifesaving intervention. To learn more about the availability of and training on how to use naloxone in Alameda County, please email: Overdose@acgov.org.

Here are some additional resources on harm reduction and overdose prevention:

Harm Reduction and Overdose Prevention Programs

Alameda County Public Health Department funds two harm reduction and overdose prevention programs in Alameda County:

HIV Education and Prevention Project of Alameda County (HEPPAC)

5323 Foothill Blvd
Oakland, CA 94601
(510) 434-0307

Bay Area Community Health: Generations Project

1999 Mowry Avenue, Suite F
Fremont, CA 94538
(408) 493-3937
Info.harmreduciton@bach.health

Syringe Service Programs in CA:

For a complete listing of Syringe Service Programs in California, please visit: Directory of Syringe Services Programs in CA.