Health Crisis Alert: How youths now inject their system with blood to get high

The Ogun State Government has issued a stern warning to youths against engaging in a dangerous drug practice known as “bluetoothing.”

Dr. Kehinde Fatungase, Executive Secretary of the Ogun State Agency for the Control of AIDS, described the trend as a deadly act in which individuals inject themselves with the blood of someone who has just taken drugs, believing it will allow them to “share the high.”

According to Dr. Fatungase, participating in this practice significantly increases the risk of contracting life-threatening infections such as HIV, Hepatitis B and C, and other severe blood-related illnesses.

He added that it also exposes users to potential overdose and life-threatening reactions.

“In Ogun State, we are committed to protecting our youths. If you or someone you know is struggling with drug use, help is available at our Key Population One Stop Shop (KPOSS) health facility at 4 Kemta Idi Aba, Abeokuta, which provides treatment and counselling services,” he said.

Dr. Fatungase urged young people to make healthy choices, saying, “Choose life, choose health, choose your future. Say no to bluetoothing and encourage friends to stay safe. Together, we can prevent HIV and protect the next generation.”

Bluetoothing, also referred to as “flashblood” in some countries, has been reported in places like South Africa, Tanzania, and Fiji. Health authorities in these regions have linked it to spikes in HIV and other infections.

The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), in partnership with community groups and the Pyrates Confraternity, recently conducted over 125 awareness campaigns in schools, religious centers, and communities, reaching more than 30,000 people.

In addition, the Ogun State Ministry of Sports Development has teamed up with youth-led NGOs, including the Drug Free Project, to leverage sports as a platform for awareness and rehabilitation.