End the Outbreak: Support Needs-Based Syringe Access
The Maine Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
Switching to a needs-based syringe access model is Maine’s best defense against the spread of HIV.
What started as a cluster of new HIV cases in Bangor in 2024 was officially declared an outbreak in March of 2025. We believe that the outbreak is likely statewide which is evidenced by the increased cases also detected in Cumberland County in 2025. The Bangor and Portland areas are the only places with robust testing and case management options. We suspect that many new cases have not been detected because testing is less accessible in other areas of our state, especially rural areas.
Why now?
In 2025, a new law was passed expanding access to mobile syringe services and the CDC is currently editing its rules accordingly. We have brought it to the CDC’s attention that they should change the rules to allow for needs-based syringe distribution. Unfortunately it seems as though the Maine CDC plans to go against best practice. The CDC will have the new rules finalized in the next couple of weeks and are required to publish them at the end of February.
This is our moment to show up for Mainers who use drugs and others in our community, and we need to do it fast before the rules are published. Let the CDC know that you stand with your neighbors and demand expanded syringe access. We may not get another opportunity like this for years.
What can you do?
Sign on to our letter urging the CDC to change their syringe distribution rules. It only takes a moment to sign. If we succeed, it will make a huge difference.
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To:
The Maine Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
From:
[Your Name]
The ongoing HIV outbreak in Maine is escalating at an alarming rate, posing a significant threat to public health across our communities. As an organization that sees the impact of public health policy on a daily basis, we recognize the urgency of implementing measures that have proven effective in other regions. Improved access to syringes is one such measure that is crucial in controlling the spread of HIV and other blood-borne diseases.
Current CDC guidelines mandate a 1-for-1 plus 100 syringe exchange model, limiting the number of syringes individuals can obtain. Such restrictions are counterproductive, leaving many vulnerable populations at risk. The evidence is clear—needs-based syringe access models are far more effective in curbing the spread of infectious diseases. By eliminating restrictive limits on syringe distribution, we can better protect individuals who rely on these supplies to practice safer injection.
In areas with needs-based syringe access models, there are significant decreases in HIV transmission rates. According to public health experts, syringe service programs are a vital component of a comprehensive approach to preventing infectious diseases. Transitioning to a needs-based model aligns with expert recommendations and mirrors successful practices seen in other states.
Enabling a needs-based model not only supports the health of at-risk individuals but also addresses the broader public health concern, reducing healthcare costs by preventing new infections. It fosters a non-judgmental, supportive environment that encourages individuals to engage with health services that can offer education, and resources for recovery.
We urge the Maine CDC to act quickly and do what needs to be done to curb the spread of HIV in Maine. The window is closing to change their rules to respond to the current public health crisis. Update the syringe service program rules to reflect a needs-based model, ensuring adequate resources for all who need them. Together, we can mitigate this outbreak and prioritize the health and safety of our community.