heroin

Prescription opioids can be addictive and dangerous. It only takes a little to lose a lot.

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

People at highest risk for HIV infection may be able to secure a free HIV test through the Comprehensive Care Clinics (Vermont providers of HIV specialty care) or through the Community Health Center of Burlington (a Federally Qualified Health Center). Contact one of the sites below for more information.

We support free HIV testing at a range of community sites. These sites also offer referral and links to prevention interventions that may help you stop the spread of HIV. People who are sexually active may receive referrals to STD testing. Although some locations offer drop-in testing, we suggest contacting the sites ahead of time to set up an appointment. 

In an overdose, opioids can slow breathing to the point of death. To save lives, the Health Department gives out a medication called naloxone (brand name Narcan®) that can reverse an overdose.

HIV can be prevented, and the risk of infection greatly reduced, through changes in behaviors or taking actions that can interrupt transmission.

Data briefs, reports and other publications on alcohol and drug use topics.

Vermonters aged 18-25 have among the highest heroin use rates in the country. Most people who use heroin have misused prescription pain relievers.

Selected, evidence-based measures reflect current priorities based on current and emerging issues related to substance use in Vermont.