© 2024 WUKY
background_fid.jpg
Play Live Radio
Next Up:
0:00
0:00
0:00 0:00
Available On Air Stations

Six Take Part In Second Week Of Needle Exchange

Josh James
/
WUKY

Lexington’s needle exchange drew one fewer participant in the program’s second week compared to its debut.

The Fayette County Health Department is banking on the exchange steadily picking up speed as local health officials are able to establish a rapport with drug users who may continue to harbor doubts about the program. But last Friday saw a slight downtick, attracting only six users.

During the first week, seven participants dropped off 259 clean needles. Those numbers dropped to 6 and 113 respectively the following week.

In total, health officials have handed out 283 clean needles.

The department is also adding one caveat – directing diabetic participants not to bring their needles to the exchange but rather to dispose of them according to guidelines set out by the city for handling medical waste.

Josh James fell in love with college radio at Western Kentucky University's student station, New Rock 92 (now Revolution 91.7). After working as a DJ and program director, he knew he wanted to come home to Lexington and try his hand in public radio.
Related Content