Southwestern Public Health issues Drug Watch for Oxford County, Elgin County and St. Thomas
Southwestern Public Health is issuing a drug watch to its partners and the public based on the following:
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Community partners and people who use substances are reporting Carfentanil circulating in our region
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Carfentanil is an opioid that is 100 times more toxic than fentanyl
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There is no easy way to know if Carfentanil is in the drugs you are using
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You can't see it, smell it or taste it. It is extremely toxic, and a very small amount can cause an overdose or even death
In case of overdose:
- Call 911
- Give naloxone if an opioid overdose is suspected (it may take more than one dose)
- Do not leave the person unattended
- Stay with and assist the person until paramedics arrive
- The person should go to the hospital with the paramedics for further treatment, if possible
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
- Have Naloxone available and educate staff on how to use it
If you use substances:
- Try not to use alone. If you use alone, tell someone where you are or use the National Overdose Response Service (NORS) 1-888-688-6677
- Try not to use alone
- If you use alone, tell someone where you are or use the National Overdose Response Service by calling 1-888-668-6677
- Avoid mixing substances, if possible
- Start with a small amount first
- Carry a naloxone kit
If you are hearing or seeing anything the community pertaining to this watch, please email us.
Contact Us
Southwestern Public Health (8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m., Monday - Friday)
St. Thomas Site
(Administrative office)
1230 Talbot Street
St. Thomas, ON N5P 1G9
Woodstock Site
410 Buller Street
Woodstock, ON N4S 4N2
Call us toll free: 1-800-922-0096
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