Drug overdoses hit record levels in North Bay/Parry Sound

The North Bay Parry Sound District Health Unit says drug overdoses in its coverage area are the highest they have been since it began its surveillance program in 2019. (Supplied)

The North Bay Parry Sound District Health Unit says drug overdoses in its coverage area are the highest they have been since it began its surveillance program in 2019.

There were 42 opioid overdoses in the month of April, breaking the previous record of 38 in September 2020, which happened during the COVID-19 pandemic.

“Of the 42 overdoses, four resulted in death,” the health unit said in a news release May 5.

As a result, the health unit has extended the April 7 community drug alert a second time.

“This level of overdose activity is deeply concerning and reflects an ongoing, unstable drug supply in our communities,” Shannon Mantha, the health unit’s chief nursing officer and executive director of clinical services, said in the news release.

“Extending the drug alert is a necessary step to raise awareness, prevent further harm, and help people know how to protect themselves and others.”

Residents are being urged to carry naloxone and look out for their loved ones.

“We encourage everyone to check in on their friends, family and neighbors who may be at risk, and to learn how to recognize and respond to an opioid overdose,” Mantha said.

“Carrying naloxone, making sure your kit is well stocked and knowing how to use it could help save a life.”

What to look for

The recent substances being reported are fentanyl, prescription opioids and unknown opioids. Depending on the type of substance consumed, symptoms of poisoning may look different.

Opioid poisoning symptoms: bluish, purple, or greyish skin, lips, or nails (depending on skin tone); dizziness, confusion, or inability to stay awake; choking, gurgling, or snoring sounds; and, slow, weak, or no breathing.

Benzodiazepines (benzos) poisoning symptoms: extreme sleepiness or passing out; poor balance or movement control; and, slurred speech; blackouts and memory loss

Call 911 if someone is experiencing a drug overdose and stay with the person. Monitor their breathing until help arrives.

More information on responding to an overdose can be found here.

The health unit said the drug alert will stay in place while overdose activity remains elevated.