Hastings Prince Edward Public Health (HPEPH) has issued another alert after additional suspected drug-related deaths in the region.
On Monday, public health officials said they were urging individuals who use drugs to take all available precautions to avoid drug poisoning. Public health said officials received another notification of suspected drug-related deaths in the region during the week of March 9, 2024.
“These tragic deaths are in addition to the previously reported increase in suspected drug-related deaths in the region the week of Feb. 26 to March 1, 2024,” explained HPEPH.
HPEPH sounded the alarm, issuing a similar alert about an increase in suspected drug-related deaths in the region just last Monday.
Public health issues the alerts when there are two or more suspected drug-related deaths in one week, explained officials.
Due to the toxicity and volatility of the local supply of unregulated drugs in Hastings and Prince Edward counties, public health is urging all who use drugs to take steps to reduce risk.
Public health recommends: Not using drugs alone; having a plan (ask someone you trust to stay with you or check on you); starting with a small amount to see how an individual reacts, and always carrying one or more naloxone kits.
Using drugs alone significantly increases the risk of a drug poisoning that leads to death, echoed HPEPH.
To learn more about resources available and additional steps to stay safe, visit HPEPH’s website.
(Written by: Sarah Hyatt)
