10 suspected drug poisonings reported in 24-hour period
Administrator | Jul 01, 2023 | Comments 0
Hastings Prince Edward Public Health (HPEPH) has received notification of at least 10 suspected drug poisonings in the Belleville region within a 24-hour period.
On Friday, HPEPH noted it does not have confirmation of the substance related to these events but states increasing reports of suspected drug poisoning are often the result of new or toxic drugs being introduced to the area.
Public Health states that locally, an average of three suspected drug poisonings are typically reported weekly.
“This sudden increase in reports over the past 24-hours is a significant concern. As not all drug poisonings are reported HPEPH expects that the number of poisonings being experienced in the community is even higher than this,” says Dr. Ian Gemmill, Acting Medical Officer of Health at HPEPH. “People who use drugs can take several steps to reduce their risk. If you use drugs, don’t use alone and have at least one naloxone kit on hand. To reduce your risk of drug poisoning, avoid mixing drugs, and try a small amount first.”
HPEPH is working with local partners to continue collecting information regarding these drug poisonings, including the substance linked to the events. HPEPH receives information about drug poisonings from several community partners, as well as local residents.
Filed Under: Local News
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