Cotton: Facts and Tips

Brochure Text:

COTTON

Facts & Tips

• Sharing cottons can spread HIV, hepatitis B and hepatitis C.
• Spores & bacteria grow in used cottons.
• Don't save used cottons for when you can't score.
• Save a tiny bit of dope instead.
• Use a fresh, clean cotton every time you shoot.

Cotton fever is probably not caused by cotton fibers. It's more likely caused by bacteria that live in the cotton. Cotton can grow a lot of bacteria, especially after it gets wet. Re-using cottons can put bacteria directly into your blood stream. Cotton fever is uncomfortable, but it's usually not serious.

Symptoms may include:

• Chills
• Fever
• Hot flashes
• Shaking that you can't control
• Headaches
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Shortness of breath

Symptoms usually show up right after injecting, but may take up to an hour. Taking a second hit will not make them go away. Instead, grab a blanket and let the infection take its course.

If symptoms last longer than 3 to 4 hours, or get worse, go to an emergency room. Don't ignore these symptoms, especially if they last. They can mean that you have a very serious infection or even a blood clot that could kill you.

• Always use a fresh new cotton, a new cooker and a new sterile syringe.
• Before you shoot, wash your hands and the injection site with lots of soap and hot water. Then wipe the site with an alcohol pad

• Exchange used rigs for new, sterile ones.
• Test for HIV, hepatitis & TB.
• Get great advice and helpful hints from our vein care pros.
• Get quality health care from the docs in our Medical Clinic (Monday - Friday, 1:30 - 4:30 pm).

There are 7 needle exchange sites in King County.
Call 206-205-7837 for hours and more info.
www.metrokc.gov/health/apu