Public Health Grey bruce has issued an Opioid Overdose Alert.
The Health Unit says over the past 5 days, there have been six reported opioid overdoses within both Grey and Bruce Counties.
They say although lab and coroner confirmation are still required, it appears that there was one fatal overdose included in this number.
The Health unit says people who use drugs are at significant risk of overdose due to the local street drug supply containing the highly toxic drug Fentanyl.
They say people must assume that any and all drugs purchased on the street contain Fentanyl or Carfentanil which is 100 times stronger than Fentanyl.
The Health Unit says it is are aware that many neighbouring jurisdictions have reported Fentanyl in the cocaine supply as well, leading to fatal overdoses.
They say to avoid using drugs alone and when using with someone else, avoid using at the same time.
Some tips from the Health Unit:
-You can call the overdose prevention line at 1-888-853-8542 if you must use alone.
-Avoiding mixing different drugs.
-Mixing drugs, including alcohol, increases the risk of overdose.
-Go slow.
-Use smaller amounts and do test doses to check the strength of the drug.
-Know your tolerance.
-If using after a period of not using – use less.
-Get overdose prevention training and carry a Naloxone kit.
-Overdose is a medical emergency. Call 911 or go to the Emergency Department.
-The Good Samaritan Drug Overdose Act provides protection from simple possession charges when 911 is called for an overdose.
Public Health says the overdose prevention line is a vital phone service for people that are using drugs alone. An operator will stay on the line with the user while the drug is used. In the event that the user becomes unresponsive, the Prevention Line operator will call 911 to make sure that help arrives.
If you know of a toxic drug, please report it by calling 211. The operator will fill out a form and it will then go to Public Health to action and alert the community.
Naloxone and safe drug use equipment is available at the Health Unit Monday to Friday from 830 a.m. to 4 p.m. and through other participating sites. Call the Health Unit for details, or call 211.
For additional Addiction Services:
ConnexOntario 1-866-531-2600
Withdrawal Management/RAAM Clinic (Rapid Access Addiction Medicine Clinic) 519-376-5666
G&B House 519-376-9495
Ontario Addiction Treatment Centre 519-371-0007
CMHA Grey Bruce Mental Health and Addiction Services 519-371-3642
Mental Health Crisis Line Grey Bruce 1-877-470-5200
Overdose Prevention Line: 1-888-853-8542
If unsure – call 211