People who use drugs in B.C. can now access harm reduction supplies online, with the aim of reaching those who are not comfortable or not able to use safe consumption sites.
“The unregulated toxic drug supply crisis requires us to think outside the box — in this case, deliver the box of harm reduction supplies — to individuals who don’t typically use in-person services,” Erin Gibson, manager of clinical operations for Fraser Health's toxic drug response and priority populations, said in a news release.
“There are many reasons people don’t access in-person harm reduction and drug checking services, including lack of transportation and stigma. We’re still encouraging people to have someone witness their consumption wherever possible to reduce the risk of toxic drug deaths.”
In the first half of 2024, 1,158 people died in B.C. from toxic drug ingestion, with the crisis still the leading cause of death for people aged 10 to 59 in the province.
With no cost attached, the new online portal is now open to anyone in the region under the Fraser Health authority. The supplies offered include injection and inhalation supplies, naloxone kits, fentanyl screening strip kits and safe sex supplies.
Anyone interested can peruse the website of the various products available, add what they need to a virtual basket and then checkout, with no price attached to any of the supplies. All products purchased are intended for personal use only, Fraser Health states.
Pamphlets and instructional videos will also be available for individuals to learn how to use each product they choose.
The website also includes resources on connecting to clinical and outreach teams and virtual care options.
There are safe consumption and overdose prevention sites all across the province, with Fraser Health operating 12 in the region, while shelters and supportive housing locations also offer similar services.
- with a file from Jane Skrypnek
