Hastings Prince Edward Public Health says it continues to see an increase in opioid overdoses. Emergency Department overdose events in the region reached a record high of 22 in May. Belleville Police and Hastings-Quinte Paramedic Services have reported responding to an increase in calls related to overdose events. Neighbouring health units reportedly are also experiencing similar trends.
HPEPH says it understands that the COVID-19 pandemic and associated stresses are difficult for many individuals and may lead to an increase in substance use. Those who use drugs are urged to engage in harm reduction efforts to avoid overdose. Steps to reduce harms related to drugs include:
- having a naloxone kit
- never using alone
- avoid mixing drugs or using drugs and alcohol at the same time
- using a small test dose first
Another option is to call into the Overdose Prevention Line Monday to Friday 10am to 10pm and Saturday to Sunday 10am to midnight at 1-888-853-8542. The operator will ask for the caller’s location and stay on the phone line while the caller uses drugs. In the event that they receive no response after administration of narcotics, the operator will call 911 and alert them to a possible overdose at the location provided by the caller.
Naloxone and harm reduction supplies continue to be available during regular office hours at Belleville, Bancroft, and Trenton HPEPH locations for contact-free pickup. “We recognize that this is a very challenging time for our community” says Dr. Caturay, Acting Medical Officer of Health at HPEPH. “We know that some people may use drugs or alcohol as a way to cope and we want to ensure that everyone who is struggling has the information they need to reduce potential harm. In addition to regular harm reduction practises, those who use drugs are reminded to take additional precautions to reduce the risk of COVID-19 during the pandemic. This includes maintaining physical distance practises, frequent hand washing, and avoiding shared equipment”.
If you struggle with use of drugs or alcohol, you are not alone. If you are looking for help to manage or stop your substance use, review the Getting Help section of the HPEPH website, which identifies free and confidential community resources that are available to assist you. For additional information regarding safer drug use and overdose prevention, visit our Safer Drug Use web page.
