Warning issued to those who use drugs in Hastings and Prince Edward

Hastings Prince Edward Public Health has joined neighbouring health units in Kingston and Northumberland, with issuing a warning to drug users.

Local health officials say that they are concerned for the wellbeing of local residents as there has been an increase in drug related overdoses reported across Ontario.

Individuals who use drugs are being asked to take extra caution and have the necessary precautions in place to prevent an overdose situation.

Hastings Prince Edward Public Health notes that they have not seen an increase in overdoses in recent weeks in their jurisdiction, but some people don’t often seek help.

“If you use drugs, reduce your risk by not mixing drugs, try test amounts first, always have a naloxone kit on hand, and never use alone – even during the COVID-19 pandemic. It is important to have someone with you who can administer naloxone or call 911 in case of overdose. If you must use and you are alone, you can connect with the National Overdose Response Service 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, by calling 1-888-688-6677 and someone will stay on the line with you,” said Dr. Piotr Oglaza, Medical Officer of Health and CEO at HPEPH. “

Here’s some more facts from HPEPH:

• Toronto’s Drug Checking Service has issued alerts regarding contaminated drug supply that contains opioids much stronger then fentanyl*

 

• Peterborough Public Health, Leeds Grenville and Lanark District Health, and most recently KFL&A Public Health have also issued releases advising of increases in overdoses within their region.

 

• KFL&A reported a newer yellow/beige substance circulating, although opioid products continue to be in a range of colours, and continue to contain fentanyl, carfentanil, and benzodiazepines – increasing risk of overdose.

HPEPH has seen a upward trend in overdoses over the past year with an all time spike reported in late 2020. The Chief Coroner’s Office has also released preliminary data related to overdose deaths during the pandemic.  This report confirms a significant increase in overdose deaths since the onset of the pandemic. The province experienced a 60% increase in overdose related deaths from 2019-2020, demonstrating the need for ongoing harm reduction supports and continued efforts to reduce stigma surrounding drug use and overdoses.  In 2020, HPEC experienced 28 OD deaths, a 75% increase from the 16 OD related deaths reported in 2019. 

If you use drugs, you are not alone. Please take steps to stay as safe as possible. Information about support options is available on HPEPH’s Getting Help page.

For more information about safer drug use including locations where naloxone is available, visit hpepublichealth.ca/safer-drug-use.

Residents are reminded that an overdose is a medical emergency. Anyone who suspects or witnesses an overdose 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 an overdose and calls 911.

*Identified substances include carfentanil (100x stronger than fentanyl), and etonitaxene is (10x stronger than fentanyl), and isotonitazene (5x stronger than fentanyl).