RED Drug Alert Issued for Legacy Porcupine Health Unit Area
Toxic Drug Supply Prompts Heightened Public Health Warning
Timmins, Ontario – In response to growing concerns about the presence of toxic substances in the local drug supply, Northeastern Public Health, in collaboration with the Opioid Emergency Response Task Force, has issued a RED Drug Alert for communities within the legacy Porcupine Health Unit area.
“This heightened alert calls for increased awareness of the ongoing severity of the opioid crisis,” says Krista Green, Program Manager at Northeastern Public Health. “Any type of illicit drug—regardless of how it is used—may contain toxic substances that can result in unintentional opioid poisoning.”
Northeastern Public Health and the Opioid Emergency Response Task Force urge individuals to carry naloxone, a life saving medication that can temporarily reverse the effects of an opioid poisoning.
Key Recommendations:
· Never use alone – If possible, use with someone you trust.
· Carry naloxone – Naloxone is a life-saving medication that can temporarily reverse the effects of an opioid poisoning. It is easy to use and available free of charge at most pharmacies and all Northeastern Public Health offices.
· Call 911 or contact the emergency response service available in your community in the event of a suspected poisoning.
Northeastern Public Health and the Opioid Emergency Response Task Force will continue to monitor the situation closely and provide updates as needed. Community members are encouraged to stay informed and to share this alert widely.
For more information and resources, visit www.neph.ca.