Moray public warned over discarded drug needles

Used drug needles found in Forres has sparked a public safety warning with unusually large numbers of needles being discovered at single locations.

Health experts will be in Forres on Friday raising awareness over the safe use of needle exchange services with equipment having also been found recently in Lossiemouth and Elgin.

Andy Jamieson, the anti-social behaviour coordinator at Moray Council said: “The majority of drug users do dispose of needles responsibly and use needle exchanges across Moray.

“But there are occasions when an unusually large number of needles are recovered from a single location.

“Although we are delivering the session in Forres, equipment has been found throughout Moray and we want members of the public to be safe – so we will be advising that if you find discarded drug-injecting equipment do not touch it and immediately report it to Moray Council.”

NHS Grampian’s advanced area public health coordinator Laura Sutherland added: “Our visit to Forres is an opportunity to highlight local support services for testing and treatment of blood-borne viruses equipment discarded in public places – as well as advising drug users and those close to them about the risks associated with injecting drugs.”

Anyone finding discarded needles should contact Moray Council on 01343 543451.

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