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Syringe exchange programs
These programs provide free sterile syringes and collect used syringes from injection-drug users (IDUs) to reduce transmission of bloodborne pathogens, including human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), hepatitis B virus, and hepatitis C virus (HCV). Get a list of syringe exchange programs NYC here. https://www.health.ny.gov/diseases/aids/consumers/prevention/needles_syringes/docs/sep_hours_sites.pdf
Newly Diagnosed?
"If you’re newly diagnosed with HIV, start by taking a deep breath"
Being diagnosed with HIV can be shocking and incredibly upsetting, but with proper care and treatment, you can live a long and healthy life. HIV comes with challenges, but it is no longer the death sentence it was once. If you’re newly diagnosed with HIV, start by taking a deep breath.
No matter how afraid, sad or angry you might feel, you will feel better as you start working closely with a health care provider and begin surrounding yourself with the support you need. Here are some tips for the newly diagnosed:
Find Support: A friend or family member can be a great source of support when you’re feeling upset and confused about your new diagnosis. Of course, it’s not easy to predict exactly how people will respond to your news—even if you’ve known them for years. (Click here for tips on disclosure https://www.poz.com/basics/hiv-basics/disclosure.) Consider choosing one or two people you think might best handle the news. If you’re not ready to tell anyone about your diagnosis, that’s OK. See below for info on how you can get connected to others.
Find a Doctor: Establishing a relationship with a health care provider is an essential first step for people living with HIV. It’s important to be open and honest about your needs because your relationship with your health care team will play a big role in your staying healthy. As soon as possible after your HIV diagnosis, it’s important to see a doctor who specializes in HIV care. Click here for more information about finding a doctor and accessing care. https://www.poz.com/basics/hiv-basics/finding-doctor-accessing-care
Get Informed: Knowing the benefits and risks of HIV treatment may help calm any fears you may have. The more you know about HIV, the more empowered you’ll be to get the care and treatment you need. Click here to learn about the basics of HIV. https://www.poz.com/basics/hiv-basics
Get Connected: Even if you have the support of friends and family, you might also consider joining a group specifically for people who were just diagnosed with HIV, to find out how others handled the news. Many AIDS service organizations (ASOs)—search for one at directory.poz.com—offer support groups, along with other professional services, such as drug recovery programs and treatment education workshops, along with case management to help with legal, financial or housing obstacles that might be in your way. For those who find comfort in online support, check out the POZ Forums, a round-the-clock discussion area for people with HIV/AIDS, their friends/family/caregivers, and others concerned about HIV/AIDS. You’ll find other people living with HIV who can offer words of wisdom and encouragement.
Prevent HIV Transmission: Learn about the ways to avoid passing on HIV to anyone else.
Take Medication: Taking antiretroviral medication reduces your viral load and reduces the likelihood of passing on the virus to someone else.
Use condoms: When used consistently and correctly, condoms can effectively prevent HIV transmission.
Talk to your partner about PrEP and PEP: If you are in a relationship with an HIV-negative partner, discuss pre-exposure prophylaxis (PreP) as an option to prevent transmission. If your partner has had a possible exposure to HIV, have your partner discuss post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) with a health care provider.
Don’t share injection drug equipment: Use new, sterile syringes and needles every time you inject. Many areas offer needle-exchange programs. While reading and familiarizing yourself about HIV, keep your chin up. Know that you are not alone in this fight, and that you can survive and thrive with HIV. Click here to read the inspiring stories of other HIV-positive people. https://www.poz.com/basics/hiv-basics/newly-diagnosed
Reach out to your care provider for more info and be sure to message your PEEP with questions.