Shooting Up - Infections among injecting drug users in the United Kingdom 2008. An update: October 2009

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Transmission of HIV and hepatitis C infection through injecting drug use remains higher than in the late 1990s. Overall, around two-fifths of injecting drug users are now infected with hepatitis C and about one in 73 with HIV.
Injecting site infections are common, with around one-third of injecting drug users reporting an abscess, sore, or open wound at an injecting site in the last year.
Injecting into the groin and the injection of crack cocaine, which are associated with higher levels of infection and risky injecting, have become more common.
Needle and syringe sharing has declined in recent years with around a fifth of injecting drug users continuing to share. The sharing of other injecting equipment is more common.
There has been a marked increase in the number of injecting drug users receiving the hepatitis B vaccine, with over two-thirds now reporting vaccination.
Services to reduce injecting-related harm and support for those who want to stop injecting should continue to be developed in line with published guidance.

Last reviewed: 23 October 2009