Lakelands Public Health issued an alert April 29 due to a high number of suspected drug poisonings related to paramedic service calls in Haliburton County.
The substance of concern is suspected to be opioids. Multiple doses of Naloxone may be required.
“It is important to be aware that the unregulated drug supply may be contaminated with other substances. Naloxone should be used in all suspected drug overdoses, due to the possibility of opioid contamination or poisoning. Free Naloxone kits are available at all Lakelands Public Health offices, participating local pharmacies, and other local agencies,” the health unit said.
Signs of an opioid overdose may include:
• very small pupils
• slow or no breathing
• cold and clammy skin
• blue or purple fingernails or lips
• snoring or gurgling sounds
• heavy sedation, difficulty being woken up
Anyone who sees a person experiencing a drug poisoning is urged to intervene. Call 9-1-1, give the person Naloxone, and start rescue breathing and, or chest compressions. The Good Samaritan Act protects anyone trying to help in an emergency from possible legal repercussions. The Good Samaritan Drug Overdose Act also helps protect people on the scene of an overdose from being charged for using or possessing drugs for personal use.
Lakelands Public Health recommends the following harm reduction practices:
• Keep multiple Naloxone kits on hand.
• Test a small amount of the drug before you use it.
• Use new supplies and access needle disposal bins to reduce harms associated with substance use.
• Don’t use alone – Call the National Overdose Response Service (NORS), virtual safe consumption, at 1-888-668-NORS (6677) or use a buddy system and call a friend.
• Call 9-1-1 if an overdose is suspected.
Support:
• Call or text 9-8-8 Suicide Crisis Helpline, a 24/7 suicide or emotional distress hotline if needed.
• Substance use counselling and treatments are offered through:
Rapid Access Addiction Medicine (RAAM) Clinics https://www.lakelandsph.ca/…/harm-reduction-supplies…/ or
Four Counties Addiction Services Team (Fourcast)
https://www.fourcast.ca/
For more information on opioids and naloxone visit LakelandsPH.ca/naloxone
