Rise in Portland-area HIV cases linked to infected needles

PORTLAND, Ore. (AP) – Health authorities in the Portland area say an increase in HIV cases appears to be linked to infected needles.

The Oregonian/OregonLive reported Thursday that Multnomah County, where Portland is located, found 42 new cases of HIV among people who report using methamphetamine or other drugs with a syringe.

The increase occurred in the past year and a half, while only 25 people diagnosed with HIV in the previous two years were linked to infected needles.

Officials say the cases involve all genders and sexualities.

The Multnomah County deputy health officer says her department is unsure if the figures represent “a short-term increase or longer-term trend.”

Officials have urged anyone who uses needles to inject drugs or has sexual partners who do so to be tested for HIV infection.