Peterborough Public Health Issues Alert From Increased Drug Poisonings
/Peterborough Public Health (PPH) issued a warning following an increase in suspected drug poisonings on Monday afternoon.
File Photo.
On Saturday, PPH detected a higher than usual number of drug-related Emergency Department Visits.
“Peterborough Public Health has detected an increase in opioid-related harms,” said Jocelyn Qualtrough, PPH health promoter. “This is thought to be the result of a product recently sold as fentanyl which may be contaminated with toxic substances of inconsistent or increased potency. We are now reaching out to the public as part of our enhanced response and hope to prevent further harm in the community.”
There were a total of five drug-related poisonings that were treated by the emergency department. PPH suspects to be the result of an opiate product with an increased level of toxicity.
PPH reminds the public that street drugs may be cut or mixed with toxic substances. Even a small amount of drug can be fatal. In case of exposure to these substances, give Naloxone. This may improve breathing but may not help the individual regain consciousness. Call 911 and continue to monitor breathing until medical help arrives.
If you use drugs, Peterborough Public Health recommends that you:
Don’t use drugs alone. Visit the Consumption Treatment Services site at 220 Simcoe St., open 9:30 a.m. - 8:00 p.m., days a week.
If using with a friend, do not use at the exact same time.
Have a plan – Ask someone to check on you or call the National Overdose Response Service 1-888-688-6677.
Carry a naloxone kit. Keep it visible and close by.
Avoid mixing drugs.
Test your drug by using a small amount first.
Call 911 immediately if someone cannot be resuscitated after naloxone is administered.
PPH has released a list of signs of an opioid overdose and what to do in case of one:
Skin is cold and clammy
Fingernails or lips are blue or purple
Body is very limp
Can’t wake the person up
Deep snoring or gurgling sounds
Breathing is very slow, erratic or has stopped
Pupils are very small
If an overdose is witnessed: Call 911. Give naloxone. Continue to check for breathing. Stay with the person until help arrives.
Under Canada’s Good Samaritan Drug Overdose Act, anyone who seeks medical help for themselves or for someone else who has overdosed, WILL NOT be charged for possessing or using drugs for personal use.
