The Hastings Prince Edward Public Health Unit says it’s been alerted about a sudden increase in the number of suspected opioid-related poisonings that took place in Belleville on Wednesday.
Hastings Quinte Paramedic Services is reporting more than 20 opioid-related calls for service in Belleville on Wednesday.
Belleville Police Services say they are aware of at least 10 suspected opioid-related poisonings that took place in a two-hour period in the afternoon.
The health unit says it has also received confirmation from other community partners.
“Local reports of suspected drug poisonings are significantly higher than usual in our region,” says Dr. Ethan Toumishey, Medical Officer of Health at HPEPH in a release.
“While we do not have confirmation on the substances contributing to these drug poisonings, it’s important that people who use drugs take steps to reduce their risk. If you use drugs, don’t use alone and have at least one naloxone kit on hand. To reduce your risk of drug poisoning, avoid mixing drugs, and try a small amount first.”
Early anecdotal data received by HPEPH indicates that the sudden increase may be linked to a reported brown fentanyl.
The health unit is continuing to investigate and monitor the increase.
