So I’ll have a shower before I inject […] I didn’t used to do that. I just swabbed the area and, you know, if you’re dirty, chances are you’re just rubbing dirt around a little bit if you don’t do it properly. […] Yeah, I’m big on that, the showers beforehand now. […] Since [having] abscesses and things like that, definitely, those were a big wake-up call. – Nathan, Qld
Bacterial and fungal infections can occur because of poor injecting technique, contaminated drugs or unsterile injecting equipment or injection site on your body. It is important you use new sterile needles, syringes, vials and ampoules every time you inject.
You should always wash your hands thoroughly with soap before and after preparing and injecting. You should also wash down the area where you are injecting and the injection site with soap and warm water.
Bacterial infections could include cellulitis (fatty tissue inflammation) or abscesses. Symptoms of infection include pain, redness, swelling, warmth and itching around the injection site, as well as fever. If you experience any of these symptoms it is important you visit a doctor, as untreated infections are likely to get worse and may cause lasting damage
If an abscess appears it is important not to squeeze it yourself as it can cause bacteria to get into your bloodstream. This can lead to sepsis, which can be life-threatening. Symptoms of sepsis include fever, chills, nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, and confusion. If you have symptoms of sepsis, you should go to hospital immediately. Treatment is most effective when started early.