Hastings Prince Edward Public Health (HPEPH) has received notification of an increase in suspected drug-related deaths in the region during the week of February 26 to March 1, 2024. HPEPH issues a media release when there are two or more suspected drug-related deaths in one week. Due to the toxicity and volatility of the local supply of unregulated drugs in Hastings and Prince Edward Counties (HPEC), HPEPH is urging everyone who uses drugs to take steps to reduce their risk:
- Don’t use drugs alone.
- Have a plan. Ask a person who you trust to stay with you or check on you.
- Start with a small amount to see how you react.
- Always carry one or more naloxone kits
Using drugs alone significantly increases the risk of a drug poisoning that leads to death. If using with someone else, do not use at the exact same time. If you must use drugs alone, use an overdose prevention service such as the National Overdose Response Service by calling 1-888-688-NORS (6677). When using this non-judgemental service, an individual will stay on the line with you while you use drugs, and if you lose consciousness, they will call for medical assistance to help you.
You can help! Seek support and harm reduction services for yourself or others.
If you or someone you know is struggling with drug use and would like support, visit HPEPH’s Getting Help page. To protect yourself and others, be aware of the signs of an opioid poisoning and pick up a free naloxone kit. Naloxone is available locally at many locations, including pharmacies. For a list of locations where naloxone is available, visit hpePublicHealth.ca/safer-drug-use.
You can help! Call for medical assistance.
A drug poisoning is a medical emergency. Anyone who suspects or witnesses a drug poisoning should call 911. The Good Samaritan Drug Overdose Act provides some legal protection against simple drug possession charges for anyone who experiences, witnesses, or responds to a drug poisoning and calls 911.
You can help! Report a drug poisoning.
Individuals who witness a drug poisoning in the community can report the event to HPEPH, by completing our online Overdose Reporting tool. This tool is completely anonymous and information is provided to Public Health Nurses to help ensure harm reduction services are available to those who need them most.
THE ABOVE SUBMITTED BY HASTINGS PRINCE EDWARD PUBLIC HEALTH
