Reducing the incidence of blood-borne infections (BBVs) continues to present a considerable public health challenge. Both internationally and in New Zealand, the high risk of transmission of HIV and hepatitis C (HCV) among injecting drug users (IDUs) has led to the introduction of harm reduction measures, such as needle exchange programmes.

The Global State report is designed to be an advocacy and reference tool for a wide range of audiences, including international donor organisations, multilateral and bilateral agencies, civil society and non-governmental organisations (NGOs), organisations of people who use drugs, researchers and the media.

This study is unique in that it offers three different perspectives on treatment: those of people with Hepatitis C, general practitioners and specialist physicians.