A spike in suspected opioid-related overdoses and deaths has prompted an advisory from Lambton Public Health.
In a news release issued late Friday, the health unit says it 'urgently recommends caution' when using opioids or if using drugs not prescribed to you.
This marks the first opioid-related public health advisory issued locally since July 2023, following reports of ten suspected opioid overdoses/toxicity over a five-day period.
Actions you can take to prevent opioid-related poisonings include:
• Don’t mix with alcohol or other drugs,
• Don’t use alone,
• Know the signs of an opioid overdose,
• Carry a Naloxone kit.
Signs of an opioid overdose/toxicity include:
• Difficulty walking, talking, or staying awake,
• Blue or grey lips or nails,
• Very small pupils,
• Cold and clammy skin,
• Dizziness and confusion,
• Extreme drowsiness,
• Choking, gurgling, or snoring sounds,
• Slow, weak, or no breathing,
• Inability to wake up, even when shaken or shouted at.
Free Naloxone kits are available from Lambton Public Health, local pharmacies, and several partner agencies including Community Health Centres.
In the event of a suspected opioid overdose/toxicity please:
• Call 911 and stay at the scene to provide information to paramedics,
• Administer Naloxone if you have it,
• Know that the Good Samaritan Drug Overdose Act protects you.