Grey Bruce Public Health has issued another opioid alert following three recent overdoses, one of which resulted in a fatality.
According to GBPH, the three recent suspected drug poisonings took place over November 24-25 in Owen Sound.
Opioids are suspected in the two non-fatal drug poisonings. The substance that caused the fatality is unknown at this time.
This is the 25th opioid overdose issued by GBPH this year. Health officials are reminding everyone who uses illicit street drugs to be careful and practice harm reduction strategies.
Those include:
Not using alone. GBPH urges people to have a sober friend with them when using drugs or to contact the National Overdose Response Service (NORS) or use/download the BRAVE App if using alone. NORS can be reached by calling or texting 1-888-688-6677. A NORS operator will stay on the line with the person while the drug is used. In the event the person becomes unresponsive, NORS will call 911 to ensure help arrives.
Taking extra caution if mixing drugs. Mixing drugs, including with alcohol, increases the risk of harm and overdose.
Going slow. Always start with a low dose and increase slowly, especially if trying something new or restarting use.
Using only new supplies and avoid sharing supplies. This reduces the risk of getting or passing on an infectious disease. Supplies are available at GBPH and community partners.
Getting overdose prevention training and carrying a Naloxone kit. Naloxone is available for free at most local pharmacies and at GBPH, Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. No appointment or prescription is needed.
Test kits for fentanyl, benzodiazepines, and xylazine are available from Public Health and several community partners, including Safe ‘N Sound, SOS, Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA) Grey-Bruce, and the South East Grey Community Health Centre.
The SOS mobile team now offers detailed drug-checking services, providing information about what substances are present in a sample and how much. The team can be reached at 519-379-8743 from Monday to Thursday, 8:30 a.m. to 6 p.m.
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 for everyone at the scene when 911 is called for an overdose.
For additional supports and services:
Suicide Crisis Helpline: 9-8-8
Connex Ontario: Call 1-866-531-2600 or text 247247
Ontario Addiction Treatment Service (OATC): 519-371-0007
Withdrawal Management/RAAM Clinic: 519-376-5666
G&B House: 519-371-3642 ext.1580
CMHA Grey Bruce Mental Health and Addiction Services: 519-371-3642
Rapid Access Addiction Medicine (RAAM) Clinic: 519-376-3999
National Overdose Response Service (NORS): 1-888-688-6677
If unsure – call 211