Reports of suspected opioid-related poisonings have skyrocketed over the last few days, leaving public health officials, police, emergency services personel and emergency department staff to question whether a new and toxic form of drug has hit the streets. Since the weekend, there has been a substantial increase in the number of suspected opioid overdoses, well above the average number of cases that have been seen on a daily basis.
Through its surveillance data, the Middlesex-London Health Unit has learned of 16 suspected overdoses that occurred yesterday and today. In addition to this information, London Police Services, and Middlesex-London Paramedic Services have reported an increase in the number of opioid-related calls they have responded to since the weekend.
“This is truly alarming. We haven’t seen numbers like this, especially over such a short period of time,” says Dr. Chris Mackie, Medical Officer of Health and CEO with the Middlesex-London Health Unit. “People need to take the necessary precautions if they intend to use these drugs. Don’t use alone, make sure naloxone is available and be ready to call 9-1-1 if something goes wrong.”
Whether a new and more dangerous form of drug has made its way to London isn’t known, but it is evident that something has caused the dramatic increase in the number of possible overdoses that has been observed over the last few days.
“The fact is that it is impossible to know what is in street drugs, which makes it critical for those who use drugs to have a safety plan.” says London Police Chief John Pare. “If you suspect an overdose, it is critical to call for help immediately. The faster emergency services can get there, the better the chance of saving a life.”
London police officers have been equipped with Naloxone since June, 2018. Since then, they have administered more than 150 doses to more than 90 individuals.
London’s TOPS, named last Friday as the city’s interim Consumption and Treatment Service, continues to be a space where people can consume pre-obtained substances under medical supervision and have access other support services.
“Middlesex-London Paramedic Service continues to monitor the increase in opiod related responses. Since the weekend, our Service has responded to a higher than average number of overdose cases, requiring treatement and care,” says Deputy Chief Michael Longeway with the Middlesex-London Paramedic Service.
Naloxone kits are available through the Health Unit, Regional HIV/AIDS Connection and pharmacies across Ontario. Naloxone can reverse opioid-related overdoses, potentially saving a life and making it possible for victims to receive urgent medical care.
Media Contact:
Dan Flaherty, Communications Manager, Middlesex-London Health Unit,
519-663-5317 extension 2469 or 519-617-0570 (cell)
Spokesperson:
Dr. Chris Mackie, Medical Officer of Health and CEO, Middlesex-London Health Unit