By Kaitlyn Clark
The Haldimand Press
HALDIMAND—With four overdoses in one week in Haldimand and Norfolk, the Haldimand Norfolk Health Unit (HNHU) is warning the community and encouraging people to pick up free naloxone kits.
“We noticed an increase in a short period,” said Public Health Nurse Tamara Robb. “We had four overdoses reported in one week…. Usually, we only have one or two (per week).”
“You need to keep in mind that this number is under reported, because we only become aware of overdoses that EMS and police are called in for,” continued Robb.
Naloxone is a synthetic drug that blocks opiate receptors in the nervous system to counter the effects of an opioid overdose, allowing an overdose victim to breathe normally. It has no effect if opioids are not present. Some overdose cases go unreported because naloxone can stabilize the person without outside medical intervention.
The Health Unit also wants to advise that in some instances, multiple doses of naloxone are being needed to revive those suffering an opioid-related overdose. This suggests higher strength opioids may be circulating in the community or other substances are being mixed with opioids (eg. benzodiazepines).
When asked if she has seen the need for multiple doses before, Robb said, “We have seen it in the past, but it’s been awhile. It depends on the supply that’s coming into the community…. On average one to two doses (of naloxone) is usually enough, but we’re finding reports from individuals using it that four to five doses are being required.”
Robb noted that this current increase is not specific to Haldimand and Norfolk, as other areas “have been reporting similar findings”. There is no limit to the number of naloxone doses that can be administered, and those administering it should “keep giving it every couple of minutes until EMS arrives or until the person becomes responsive,” said Robb.
In an effort to reduce the risk of overdoses, Haldimand Norfolk Crime Stoppers are once again offering a $1,000 reward for information that directly leads to the arrest and charging of fentanyl traffickers and rewards of $500-1,000 for information that leads to the significant seizure of illicit fentanyl and its derivatives in the two counties. These rewards are being offered until May 1.
“Fentanyl is a terrible drug. We are not immune from it; it is not a ‘big city problem’ – it is prevalent everywhere. It has made, and continues to make, a significant adverse impact on our local communities,” said HN Crime Stoppers Board Chair Neil Unwin. “If you know something, say it through our tip line at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) or on our website at helpsolvecrime.com.”
Use of drugs like fentanyl and benzodiazepines has greater potential to result in an overdose and death. If you or someone you know uses drugs, remember the following:
The 4 Cs for safer drug use
- Careful use – don’t use alone, and go slow by testing the effect with small amounts first.
- Carry naloxone – get a FREE naloxone kit and training from any Health Unit office or at participating pharmacies.
- Call 911 for every overdose. You, your friend, or family member need additional medical care, even when naloxone is used.
- CPR – push hard, push fast.
Signs of an opioid overdose
- Person cannot stay awake.
- Body is limp, will not respond to noise or stimulation.
- Slow or no breathing, gurgling.
- Pupils are pinpoint or eyes are rolled back.
- Slow or no pulse.
- Skin looks pale or blue, feels cold.
Get a naloxone kit
Haldimand Norfolk Health Unit (open Monday-Friday 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.) at:
12 Gilbertson Drive, Simcoe;
282 Argyle St S, Caledonia;
117 Forest St. E, Dunnville.
Participating pharmacies and community agencies: ontario.ca/naloxone or call the Drug and Alcohol Helpline 1-800-565-8603.
For more information visit the HNHU website: hnhu.org/opioids/.
