Naloxone kits are available for free at most local pharmacies and at Grey Bruce Public Health, Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. with no appointment or prescription needed.
Grey Bruce Public Health (GBPH) has issued a drug poisoning alert following a series of overdoses following seven non-fatal overdoses. Four occurred in a 48-hour period prior to June 3 with an additional three occurring prior to June 6.
Six of the overdoses occurred in Owen Sound while one happened in Saugeen Shores, read a June 6 media release.
"Fentanyl is the substance believed to be responsible for five of seven non-fatal drug overdoses that occurred in Grey-Bruce in the first five days of June," read the release, prompting GBPH to issue overdose alerts to the community.
A white/pink fentanyl powder was linked to one of the overdoses, the release added.
“In light of this series of recent drug poisonings, Grey Bruce Public Health would like to reiterate the importance, for those who use unregulated street drugs, to exercise extreme caution with each and every dose,” said Monica Blair, Manager of GBPH’s Harm Reduction program.
People who use drugs are at significant risk of overdose due to the local street drug supply containing the highly toxic drugs Fentanyl and Fentanyl analogues.
GBPH advises that all street drugs should be deemed potentially fatal and urges people to take precautions when using street drugs:
• Have a sober friend with you when using drugs
• Call or text the National Overdose Response Service (NORS)
• Download and use 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.
Other harm reduction recommendations include:
• Taking extra caution if mixing drugs; mixing drugs, including 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 to reduce 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. with no appointment or prescription needed
Overdose is a medical emergency. Call 911 or go to the nearest Emergency Department.
The Good Samaritan Drug Overdose Act provides protection from simple possession charges when 911 is called for an overdose. However the Act does not 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
