Giving Compass' Take:

• Jessie Hellmann reports that Alex Azar, Secretary of Health and Human Services in the Trump administration, will support needle exchange programs, a reversal in the administration's position. 

• How can funders work to encourage effective HIV prevention tactics? Where are needle exchanges most needed? 

• Learn about ways to reduce drug-related deaths. 

Health and Human Services Secretary Alex Azar on backed needle exchange programs as a way to reduce new HIV infections among people who inject illicit drugs.

Syringe services programs provide clean needles to people to inject drugs, in an effort to stop the spread of infections like HIV and Hepatitis C.

Republicans have historically opposed needle exchanges, arguing it can encourage drug use.

Studies have shown that needle exchanges can prevent the spread of HIV. Such sites often provide substance abuse treatment, HIV and hepatitis testing and other services.

Azar said Tuesday that while he would back needle exchange programs, the Trump administration remains opposed to safe injection sites.

Read the full article about support for needle exchanges by Jessie Hellmann at The Hill.