needle exchange

Six years ago, Scott County became the first place in the state to set up a needle exchange. At the time, drug users were sharing needles, and it led to the worst HIV outbreak in the state’s history.

Cases and hospitalizations from COVID-19 are at record levels for 2021. The end of Scott County’s needle exchange program is prompting a new initiative. An increase in toxic algae blooms could mean higher water bills. And the year in review.

This summer, Scott County's commissioners voted to end the needle exchange credited with stopping one of the nation's worst HIV outbreaks.