The country could be using up billions of shillings to feed the addiction of injection drug users (IDUs).

New research indicates 500 IDUs alone could spend more than Sh2 billion a year on drugs, as they have adopted more risky behaviour.

In the rapid situation assessment sponsored by National Aids Control Council (NACC), Darat HIV/Aids International Agency CEO Timothy Mugusia says an IDU addict injects himself four times a day at a cost of Sh1,600.

Dr Mugusia notes that among the 160 respondents in the study done in Mombasa and Kilindini districts, 133 were IDUs. Of these,113 were injecting themselves with heroin.

"Drug abuse especially IDU is a problem entrenched at the Coast and is spreading like fire. The stories from drug users are sad and frightening," he said, calling for a comprehensive national study on addicts.

At the same time, Mugusia raised the alarm over emerging needle-sharing practices among IDUs reported in neighbouring Tanzania and known as "flash blood".

Quoting research by Dr S A McCurdy in June this year, Mugusia notes the trend involves an IDU addict drawing his blood and passing the syringe to a companion to inject the blood into their vein to feel high.

The Mombasa-based doctor shared his findings during a training session for journalists in Mombasa.

The report was released even as women in Mombasa threatened to strip to protest against Government inaction to fight the drug menace at the Coast.

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