No evidence of growing problem with needles or sharps

Anyone who pierces skin with used needle should seek urgent medical advice

There's no evidence of a growing problem with needles or sharps being left in public places on the Isle of Man.

Manx Care has issued that assurance after a parent took to social media to raise concerns about their child finding a sharp in Ramsey.

After her five-year-old son found a sharp on Mooragh Promenade, one woman posted a plea on Facebook for those who use sharps to make sure they're disposed of in the correct way.

The healthcare provider confirmed to Manx Radio that it doesn't have any specific intelligence to suggest this is an escalating problem or concern.

However, it says there is always a risk of acquiring blood borne viruses from used or contaminated sharps discarded by people using drugs in public areas.

Manx Care warns the items can be found almost anywhere, but key risk areas include public toilets, secluded areas and parkland.

Anyone who does pierce their skin with a used needle or sharp is urged to squeeze the wound to encourage it to bleed, ideally under running water, and wash the wound with plenty of soap.

Urgent medical advice should be sought from the Emergency Department at Noble's Hospital or Minor Injuries and Illnesses Unit in Ramsey.

The police confirmed they have not received any reports with regards to sharps in Ramsey.