Southeastern Indiana is experiencing an HIV outbreak, with 26 confirmed and four preliminary HIV positive cases in the last two months, according to state health officials.

The majority of the new cases are reportedly linked to injected drug abuse of the prescription drug Opana, which contains oxymorphone and is more potent than Oxycontin. Only a small number of the new cases have been linked to sexual transmission.

Counties involved in the outbreak include Clark, Jackson, Perry, Scott and Washington. Disease intervention specialists have visited the area most affected to interview each of the new HIV positive people to determine how the disease has been contracted, recommend medical care and discuss prevention information.

Individuals living in the affected area, especially those who engage in high-risk behavior, are advised to obtain HIV testing. For a list of HIV testing locations and HIV care coordination, call the ISDH HIV Services hotline at 1-866-588-4948.

For free and confidential assistance with mental health or substance abuse issues, call the national 24-hour addiction hotline at 1-800-662-HELP (4357).

Source: WISH TV