The following release was sent by the Hastings Prince Edward Public Health Unit
Hastings Prince Edward Public Health (HPEPH) is reminding individuals who use drugs to take all available precautions to avoid drug poisoning. HPEPH has received notification of five deaths in the region which are suspected to be drug related during the period of April 14-21. This marks a significant increase compared to the same week last year which had two suspected drug related deaths. As not all drug poisonings are reported, HPEPH expects that the number of poisonings being experienced in the community is higher than this.
“Using drugs alone poses a significant risk of drug poisoning that can lead to death. There are resources available from public health and other organizations to provide compassionate, non-judgemental help,” says Stephanie McFaul, Clinical Services Program Manager.
At this time, HPEPH does not have information on the substances involved in these fatalities. Based on the information currently available, drugs that contain opioids are suspected to be involved in at least two of the deaths. HPEPH is working with local partners to continue collecting information regarding these deaths, including the substance linked to the events. Increasing reports of suspected drug poisoning are often the result of new and/or toxic drugs being introduced to the area.
HPEPH receives information about drug poisonings from several community partners, as well as local residents. While HPEPH is continuing to learn more about what may be contributing to increased reports of suspected drug poisonings in our region, everyone who uses drugs is urged to take steps to reduce their risk:
- Never use alone,
- Avoid mixing drugs,
- Try a small amount first,
- Have at least one naloxone kit on hand.
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 the 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.
