HELP ADDICTS SAVE LIVES

Re "Addicts Learn to Save Others From Death," Oct. 31

Los Angeles County Public Health Director Dr. Jonathan Fielding's
recommendation for a naloxone distribution program should be
commended. Putting naloxone into the hands of addicts and training
them how to use it is long overdue.

Harm-reduction programs such as needle exchanges save lives every day
by reducing rates of HIV, hepatitis and penicillin-resistant staph
infections. By adding naloxone and training addicts to save lives,
the Los Angeles County Department of Health Services can reduce the
rising rate of deaths from drug overdoses.

Mark Casanova

Executive Director

Homeless Health Care Los Angeles