Grey Bruce Public Health (GBPH) is issuing another Opioid alert after being notified of six suspected poisonings, including one fatality, over a 72-hour period.

The suspected fatal drug poisoning is the second one in just one week.

"GBPH is saddened to learn of another suspected drug-related fatality in our area," said Monica Blair, Manager of GBPH's Harm Reduction Plan, in a December 3 media release. "We extend our sincere condolences to those impacted by this loss," Blair said.

This Opioid Alert marks the 26th such alert in 2024, the release said, adding that a highly potent opioid fentanyl is the drug suspected in the recent fatal overdose as well as one of the non-fatal overdoses.

The six overdoses in question took place in Owen Sound, Meaford and Hanover between November 29 and December 2, 2024.

"GBPH advises that all street drugs should be deemed highly toxic and potentially fatal," the release said. "People who use unregulated drugs are at significant risk of overdose due to high-potency opioids being mixed with sedatives and other tranquilizers."

The release added that the combination complicates overdose response and increases the risk of harm and death.

Public Health is urging people who use unregulated street drugs to practice critical harm reduction strategies, including:

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, 8:30am to 4pm. No appointment or prescription is needed.

GBPH encourages people who use unregulated drugs to use drug test kits in conjunction with other harm-reduction strategies. 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, 8:30am to 6pm.

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. The Act does not however provide protection from more serious offences such as outstanding warrants or production and trafficking of controlled substances.

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