Prevention/Epidemiology

Iran Offers Addicts Condoms From Vending Machines

From U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

April 17, 2008

On Wednesday, the deputy head of Iran's anti-drug agency said vending machines will soon be installed to allow drug users access to inexpensive condoms and syringes.

"Five of these machines which have been made will be installed in five of Tehran city's welfare shelters for addicts," said Mohammad Reza Jahani. "Condoms, syringes, bandages, and plasters will be easily accessible just by inserting a coin. This protects addicts from acquiring AIDS and hepatitis." The items can be purchased with a single 500 rial coin (US 5 cents), he said.

"The machines will be used for a three-month period and if the scheme is successful, then we will upgrade them and increase their distribution to other shelters," said Jahani.

Iran has a serious drug problem, government officials acknowledge. The country is situated along one of the world's main trafficking routes for cannabis, heroin, opium, and morphine. Out of 2,500 tons of narcotics that enter Iran annually from neighboring Afghanistan, some 700 tons are consumed within the country's border, officials say.

Iran has changed its approach to combating drug use by focusing on drug treatment and disease prevention rather than throwing addicts into already overcrowded jails.

Back to other news for April 2008

Adapted from:
Agence France Presse
04.16.2008

This article was provided by U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. It is a part of the publication CDC HIV/Hepatitis/STD/TB Prevention News Update. Visit the CDC's website to find out more about their activities, publications and services.

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