Grey Bruce Public Health has reported six opioid overdoses in Grey and Bruce Counties over the past five days.
In one case, a person has died. The health unit is awaiting a coroner's report and lab test results before ruling the death a result of an opioid overdose.
"While COVID-19 is a true threat, the opioid epidemic has continued to rage on during the pandemic," noted Ian Reich, harm reduction manager for the Grey Bruce Health Unit, in a press release. "We must not forget about this public health crisis in the face of COVID-19 and we must treat it at the same level and rigour as we have the COVId-19 pandemic response."
According to the release from Grey Bruce Health Unit, people should assume "any and all" drugs purchased on the street contain Fentanyl or Carfentanil, the latter being 100 times stronger.
The health unit also noted it has received reports of Fentanyl in the cocaine supply discovered in neighbouring jurisdictions.
"We must ensure that we continue to prioritize strategies to action this emergency together, as not one single agency or organization can fix this challenging epidemic alone – it will take a coordinated effort," said Reich.
He stressed part of the solution necessary is a shift in the way society views people who use drugs.
"Addiction is a health and social issue, not a personal choice, and as a result, we must treat it as such," said Reich.
There is an overdose prevention line available toll-free at 1-888-853-8542. The health unit recommends users always have someone with them who is not using drugs at the same time, but if they must use alone, they should call the overdose prevention line prior to using and stay on the line while using drugs. An operator will stay on the line and, if the drug user becomes unresponsive, will call 911.
The health unit also recommends if getting overdose prevention training and carrying a Naloxone kit.
If you are with someone who overdoses, you can call 911. The Good Samaritan Drug Overdose Act provides protection from simple possession charges when 911 is called for an overdose, states the health unit press release.
If you know of a toxic drug circulating, you can report it to 211. Public health will receive the report and alert the community if necessary.
You can also call 211 to find out where to get Naloxone (for temporary emergency treatment of opioid overdoses) and safe drug use equipment.
Other support resources are available on the Grey Bruce Health Unit website here and on the Simcoe Muskoka District Health Unit website here.
