Drug strategy issues health alert after fentanyl poisonings
GUELPH – Local drug strategy officials have issued a health alert about fentanyl following "at least" 12 poisonings, including one death, over five days in the Guelph area.
"Please exercise extreme caution with fentanyl that is light blue in colour," notes the Feb. 3 alert from the Wellington Guelph Drug Strategy.
"The current supply may be more potent than usual and is contributing to prolonged sedation."
The alert states "multiple doses of naloxone and additional airway intervention may be required to support breathing."
It also notes, "Prolonged sedation coupled with exposure during the winter presents an escalated risk of harm."
Strategy officials offer the following tips to reduce the risk of drug poisoning:
- carry naloxone;
- use substances with others whenever possible or call the National Overdose Response Service: 1-888-688-NORS (6677);
- start low and go slow (with any new substance, start with one-third of a normal dose);
- use the Consumption and Treatment Services site supervised by health professionals at Guelph Community Health Centre, until March 31; and
- test substances at the Community Health Centre (176 Wyndham St. North) or with kits from the Sanguen Community Health Van.
More information on drug testing options can be found on the Wellington Guelph Drug Strategy website.
