Syringe Services Programs

Increase in Cases of Invasive Group A Strep Infections in Vermont

Invasive group A strep infections are serious and may require hospitalization. There is an increased risk of infection for people who use drugs containing xylazine.

To prevent infection, keep wounds clean, moist, and covered. Seek medical care right away for wounds that may be infected (red, swollen, painful, or warm to touch) or if you have a fever, chills or unexplained nausea or vomiting.

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Find a Syringe Services Program

Syringe Services Programs (SSPs) are effective community-based interventions that can prevent infectious diseases, link clients to treatment for substance use disorders, and reduce overdose deaths among people who inject drugs. They do not increase illegal drug use or crime. Learn more about SSPs

SSPs offer free and anonymous services including syringes, supplies, overdose prevention resources, and other services in several communities around Vermont. Clients of SSPs are protected from our state’s paraphernalia law.

Sterile syringes may be sold at pharmacies throughout Vermont without a prescription. However, individual pharmacists may choose not to sell them.

As of 6/30/26, Vermont CARES will provide SSP services to the Burlington area following the closure of Howard Center Safe Recovery.

AREAS SERVED	NAME	MOBILE OR FIXED SITE
Addison, Caledonia, Chittenden, Essex, Franklin, Grand Isle, Lamoille, Orange, Orleans, Rutland, Washington counties	Vermont CARES	Fixed and mobile
Bennington and Windham counties	AIDS Project of Southern Vermont	Fixed and mobile
Orange and Windsor counties, select NH counties	HIV/HCV Resource Center	Mobile

Reduce your risk of overdose

Avoid using alone. Tell someone you trust and show them how to use naloxone or confidentially contact a volunteer with lived experience to make sure you are safe by calling 877-696-1996 or chatting at NeverUseAlone.com.
Use new syringes to reduce your risk of infections and help to protect vein health.
Test for fentanyl and xylazine with free test strips Fentanyl and xylazine can be dangerous and are often found in opioids as well as other drugs like cocaine, meth and any other powder or pill.
Go slow. Start with a small amount to test drug strength.
Carry free naloxone nasal spray (Narcan®) and know how to use it.
Call 911 if you think someone is overdosing. Give naloxone and stay with the person.

Vermont's Good Samaritan Law provides some protection for people who have overdosed and those who call 911 in case of an overdose emergency.

Learn more at KnowODVT.com

VT Helplink is a free resource for Vermonters, providing confidential, non-judgmental support and referrals based on your specific needs. No matter where in Vermont you are, a caring Helplink Specialist will listen to you, answer your questions, and help you or your loved one take a step toward recovery.

Call 802-565-LINK (5465) or toll-free 833-565-LINK (5465).