Suspected drug-related deaths in Hastings-Prince Edward have now increased to six over a three-week period, says public health.
On Monday, March 25, for the third week in a row, Hastings Prince Edward Public Health issued an alert urging individuals who use drugs to take all available precautions to avoid drug poisoning.
“HPEPH continues to alert the public as the number of suspected drug-related deaths in the region has increased to six, from Feb. 25 to March 16, 2024,” said public health.
Due to the toxicity and volatility of the local supply of unregulated drugs in Hastings and Prince Edward counties, public health officials again reiterated that people using drugs should take steps to reduce their risk.
Officials are urging residents to not use alone – using drugs alone significantly increases the risk of a drug poisoning that leads to death, said public health.
People should also have a plan – someone they trust to stay with them or check on them – and start with a small amount to see how they react, added officials. Officials are urging folks to always carry one or more naloxone kits.
Public health issues these alerts when there are two or more suspected drug-related deaths in a one-week period.
More information on steps to reduce risk and about resources available is accessible via HPEPH’s website.
