Hastings and Prince Edward Counties/Nov. 2, 2023 – Hastings Prince Edward Public Health (HPEPH) has been alerted to a sudden increase in the number of suspected opioid related poisonings that took place in Belleville on November 1.
Hastings Quinte Paramedic Services reported more than 20 opioid-related calls for service in Belleville yesterday. Belleville Police Services are aware of at least 10 suspected opioid-related poisonings that took place in a two-hour period yesterday afternoon. HPEPH has received confirmation from other community partners with similar reports. This represents a sudden and unexpected increase in the number of drug poisonings in our region. For more information about historical opioid data in our region, see our dashboard.
“Local reports of suspected drug poisonings are significantly higher than usual in our region,” says Dr. Ethan Toumishey, Medical Officer of Health at HPEPH. “While we do not have confirmation on the substances contributing to these drug poisonings, it’s important that people who use drugs take 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.”
While HPEPH is continuing to investigate and monitor this increase, early anecdotal data indicates that the sudden increases in drug poisoning may be linked to a reported brown fentanyl.
HPEPH is asking people who use drugs to take extra precaution with harm reduction measures by not mixing drugs, do test amounts first, always have at least one naloxone kit on hand, and to never use alone. Ensure someone is present who can administer naloxone and call 9-1-1 in case of an overdose. If you are alone, you can connect with the National Overdose Response Service 24 hours seven days a week, by calling 1-888-688-6677 and someone will stay on the line with you. HPEPH is encouraging community partners who work with people who use drugs to advise all clients to be diligent with these precautions.
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For more information contact:
Maureen Hyland, Communications Specialist
hyland.maureen@hpeph.ca
Jessica Klein, Communications Specialist
jklein@hpeph.ca
About Hastings Prince Edward Public Health
Hastings Prince Edward Public Health (HPEPH) is a public health agency that serves the counties of Hastings and Prince Edward from four local offices. HPEPH is situated and provides services on the traditional territory of the Anishinaabe, Huron-Wendat and Haudenosaunee people. We monitor the health of our local population, deliver programs and services within our communities, and help develop healthy public policies. We provide information and support in many areas to help improve the health and well-being of our residents. Together with our communities, we help people become as healthy as they can be. For more information, please visit hpePublicHealth.ca. You can also find us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter and Instagram.
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