Southwestern Public Health issues drug watch for Oxford and Elgin County

Southwestern Public Health is issuing a drug watch to its partners and the public based on the following:

• Fentanyl of various colours with a strong benzo effect present in the community based on anecdotal reports from community partners
• There are corresponding reports of increased deaths in the region from the Office of the Chief Coroner

In case of overdose: 

• Call 911
• Give naloxone if an opioid overdose is suspected (it may take more than one dose)
• Do not leave the person unattended
• Stay with and assist the person until paramedics arrive
• The person should go to the hospital with the paramedics for further treatment, if possible

Organizations should: 

• Be aware that demand for your services may increase
• Share this information with your clients
• Monitor the situation closely and report any new observations to Southwestern Public Health
• Have Naloxone available and educate staff on how to use it

If you use substances:

• Try not to use alone. If you use alone, tell someone where you are or use the National Overdose Response Service (NORS) 1-888-688-6677
• Try not to use alone
• If you use alone, tell someone where you are or use the National Overdose Response Service by calling 1-888-668-6677
• Avoid mixing substances, if possible
• Start with a small amount first
• Carry a naloxone kit 

If you are hearing or seeing anything the community pertaining to this watch, please email us.