Used needles are sometimes found on the side of the road or in public.
While kids are taught to go find an adult if they see a needle outside, sometimes adults are unsure what to do themselves.
CHMA called local harm reduction organization Ensemble Moncton to ask what to do.
Spokesperson Debby Warren says that most of the time used needle disposal is quick, easy, and safe.
Be assured that if you see a used needle outside, the risk of contracting a disease from it is extremely low.
HIV and hepatitis do not survive long outside of the body, especially not in colder conditions.
Just make sure to never attempt to recap a needle, and to hold the sharp part away from yourself.
A peanut butter jar, coffee can, or laundry detergent jug will do the trick until you can dispose of it at a resource like Ensemble or an appropriate disposal site.
