Public Health Opioid Advisory

March 1, 2023

Attention: Oxford County

• Southwestern Public Health has received reports from multiple community partners including Woodstock Police, of multiple non-fatal poisonings that have occurred in the last week
• The overdoses are suspected to be related to very toxic fentanyl currently circulating. 
• Reports of different colours of concern including blue fentanyl as well as beige fentanyl 
• Be aware that fentanyl of any colour has the potential to be toxic
• Multiple community partners are reporting increased demand for naloxone kits
• Reports that overdoses are requiring multiple doses of naloxone; as many as 8 doses given in one overdose

In case of overdose:

• Call 911.
• Give naloxone if an opioid overdose is suspected (it may take more than one dose).
• Stay with and assist the person until paramedics arrive.
• The person should go to the hospital with the paramedics for further treatment.

Organizations should:

• Be aware that demand for your services may increase.
• Share this information with your clients.
• Monitor the situation closely and report any new observations to Southwestern Public Health.

If you use substances:

• Don’t use alone.
• Avoid mixing substances.
• Start with a small amount first.
• Carry a naloxone kit.

For more information about Opioids and Naloxone, please visit: https://www.swpublichealth.ca/en/my-health/opioids-naloxone-and-needle-exchange.aspx