Southwestern Public Health issues Drug Watch for the City of St. Thomas and Elgin County

By Southwestern Public Health - Oct 27, 2026

Media Releases

Local Overdoses Associated with a White Substance Suspected to Contain Fentanyl and Ketamine

Southwestern Public Health is issuing a drug watch to its partners and the public based on the following: 

Yesterday, community partners reported five suspected overdoses occurring within a short period of time in the community, with individuals transported to local hospital for treatment.
Community partners reported that the substance involved was described as a white substance and is suspected to contain fentanyl.

Additional local hospital reports suggest the substance may also contain ketamine.

Substances containing fentanyl and ketamine may cause severe sedation, unconsciousness, slowed or stopped breathing, and may increase the risk of overdose. The effects of substances containing fentanyl and other substances may be unpredictable and increase the risk of overdose.

Overdoses involving fentanyl may require multiple doses of naloxone. Calling 911 and administering CPR immediately are critical when responding to a suspected overdose.

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

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-NORS (6677)

Avoid mixing substances, if possible

Start with a small amount first

Carry a naloxone kit

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 are hearing or seeing anything in the community pertaining to this watch, please reach out to harmreduction@swpublichealth.ca. This watch ends Friday, November 6th, 2026, as the drug supply changes constantly.