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Hastings and Prince Edward Public Health

Report a Drug Poisoning (Overdose)

If you witness a drug poisoning (overdose), please complete our anonymous Overdose Reporting Form below. Reporting a drug poisoning can be completely anonymous, and will help HPEPH better understand the current drug poisoning situation in our region, so we can work to ensure that services are available to those who need them most.  

A drug poisoning is a response that the body has when it has received too much of one, or a mix of substances. Drug poisonings are most commonly caused by opioids. The body has many opioid receptors in the body, located in the gastrointestinal tract, and in the nervous system. When an individual consumes more opioids than their body can handle, their body’s opioid receptors become blocked and the body can no longer perform basic functions such as staying conscious and breathing.

Prevent or respond to drug poisonings (overdose)

There are many resources available for individuals and organizations to help prevent and respond to drug poisonings:

The Good Samaritan Act

The Good Samaritan Act intends to encourage people who witness an overdose event to contact help. Under the Good Samaritan Act, f you seek medical help for someone who has overdosed, you will not be charged for possessing drugs for personal use. Asking for help could save a life. The Good Samaritan Drug Overdose Act — Wallet card

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COVID-19 vaccines in HPE

Eligible individuals can receive their vaccination at many participating local pharmacies by contacting the pharmacy directly. Please visit covid-19.ontario.ca/vaccine-locations for location and registration information.

Vaccine ordering for health care providers

Vaccine orders for routine immunizations and STI medications continue to be available through HPEPH by using our vaccine order forms; however, please note that our vaccine delivery/pickup procedure has changed. For the most up to date pick up schedule please visit hpePublicHealth.ca/vaccine-orders-info-healthcare-providers/.