canadian hiv-aids legal network

TORONTO — A new report calls for the establishment of needle and syringe distribution programs in Canada's prisons, warning the high rate of bloodborne infections in prisons is a public health issue that affects all of society.

 

The report, from the Canadian HIV-AIDS Legal Network, said there is evidence from other countries that the programs reduce transmission of diseases such as HIV and hepatitis C among inmates and do so without adding to levels of institutional violence.

 

"People in our communities currently have access to needle and syringe programs. Therefore, people in prison should have the same access to clean needles and syringes," the organization said.