Hastings and Prince Edward Public Health is reporting multiple opioid overdoses in the region.
The health unit says the overdoses happened over the past several days, confirming the presence of contaminated drugs in local communities. Residents are being urged to be vigilant and precautious to avoid the risks of an overdose.
The health unit says many street drugs are being cut with high potency opioids, which are likely to include fentanul. Illegal fentanyl can increase the risk of a fatal overdose because people don’t know it’s in the street drugs they’re taking, and there’s no control on its quality.
Because of this, the health unit is reminding you to know the signs and symptoms of an overdose.
– The person is unresponsive or doesn’t wake up easily.
– Breathing is slow or not present.
– Nails and lips are blue.
– The body is limp.
– The person is choking or throwing up.
– The person is making gurgling or snoring sounds.
– The skin is cold and clammy.
If you seen an overdose, the health unit says you should call 911, administer Naloxone, and stay with the person until paramedics arrive.