International Overdose Awareness Day - August 31
International Overdose Awareness Day is a global event held each year on August 31st to raise awareness of overdose, reduce the stigma around drug-related death and remember those we have lost due to this tragedy. It also acknowledges the grief felt by family and friends of those who have died due to an overdose.
International Overdose Awareness Day spreads the message that the tragedy of overdose death is preventable.
A recent report has shown that opioid overdose deaths have surged in Ontario during the COVID-19 pandemic:
- 2,426 opioid-related deaths occurred in 2020, a 60% rise from 1,517 deaths in 2019
- There was a 79% increase in monthly opioid-related deaths in 2020, from 139 deaths in February 2020 to 249 deaths in December 2020
- Almost 1 in 6 opioid-related deaths during the pandemic occurred among people experiencing homelessness
- An unregulated and inconsistent drug supply, including, Fentanyl contributed to these deaths. Fentanyl directly contributed to 87% of the deaths and as many 50% of these deaths were attributed to “multi-drug toxicity” where other drugs such as benzodiazepines and stimulants were present
It has never been more important to make a naloxone kit part of your first aid kit. To find out where you can get your naloxone kit and help #endoverdose visit this webpage.
To learn more and to get involved visit: https://www.overdoseday.com/
References:
1. https://www.overdoseday.com/
2. https://www.publichealthontario.ca/-/media/documents/c/2021/changing-circumstances-surrounding-opioid-related-deaths.pdf?sc_lang=en
Contacts
Kylie Lechner
Communications Coordinator| Southwestern Public Health
519-631-9900 x 1322 | 1-800-922-0096
klechner@swpublichealth.ca