An opioid crisis alert has been issued in Northumberland County due to a rise in suspected opioid drug poisonings.
Dorothea Service, the Harm Reduction Program Manager at the Haliburton, Kawartha, Pine Ridge District Health Unit, expressed concern about the increased cases of opioid overdoses. She warned that drugs in Ontario are now mixed with powerful opioids, benzodiazepines, xylazine, and other substances, which can worsen the drug poisoning crisis in the region.
HKPR says it’s essential to be aware of the following information: street drugs may contain harmful substances, and combining drugs with alcohol can raise the risk of overdose. It’s recommended to keep naloxone on hand in case of a suspected drug overdose, especially because opioids may be involved. Free naloxone kits can be obtained from specific locations. In emergencies, you can contact the National Overdose Response Service (NORS) at 1-888-668-NORS (6677) If you suspect an overdose, dial 911 immediately.
The HKPR District Health Unit’s Drug Poisoning Opioid Overdose Alert is in place to detect surges in overdoses and initiate heightened outreach efforts, including the distribution of naloxone kits. Naloxone is a crucial medication that can temporarily reverse the effects of an opioid overdose until the person can receive hospital treatment.
Naloxone kits are available to individuals who use opioids, as well as their family and friends. You can obtain these kits from Health Unit offices, local pharmacies, and other designated locations.
Written by: Noah Lorusso
