(ITHACA, NY, August 28, 2024) – The end of August marks the beginning of International Drug Overdose Awareness Week, a time to raise awareness of drug overdose, strengthen our efforts to prevent overdoses and substance use-related harms and deaths, and enhance our support for individuals with substance use disorders. Additionally, August 31st observes International Overdose Awareness Day, the world’s largest annual campaign to end overdose, remember without stigma those who have died from overdose, and acknowledge the grief of the family and friends left behind.
Tompkins County Whole Health (TCWH) compiles data related to opioid overdoses in our county. Over the past 5 years, Tompkins County has lost 100 residents due to unintentional overdose. The Centers for Disease Control reports that nationwide 64.7% of drug overdose deaths had at least one potential opportunity for intervention. One step we can all take to help save lives from drug overdose is to be trained in the use of naloxone (Narcan), an opioid overdose reversal spray.
TCWH Commissioner Frank Kruppa stated, “We implore everyone in our community to pick up a Narcan kit and become trained in its use. In its nasal spray form, Narcan is simple to use and effective. Having a Narcan kit and being prepared to use it may save someone’s life.”
Kruppa continued, “It is essential to remember that every one of those 100 residents was someone’s family member, someone’s friend, someone’s coworker or someone’s neighbor. On this significant week, we extend our deepest condolences to the families and friends of these individuals, and double down on our commitment to preventing overdose deaths in the future.”
Data about Narcan use, distribution, and training in Tompkins County has been added to the Tompkins Whole Health website. The information shows Narcan administration by EMS, law enforcement, and registered Opioid Overdose Prevention Programs (OOPP). Local OOPP sites train and distribute Narcan free of charge to the public. Training and distribution increased in 2023.
Tompkins County Whole Health recommends the following overdose prevention strategies:
- Never use alone. Use with others and take turns. If you are alone, call the “Never Use Alone” Hotline to be connected with an operator who will stay on the line while you use. Dial 877-696-1996.
- Use fentanyl and xylazine test strips as a precaution, or have supply checked at a drug testing site (Southern Tier AIDS Program, Inc., 314 W. State St/MLK Jr. St, Ithaca).
- Carry naloxone (Narcan) and be trained in its use.
- Before using drugs, ask someone you trust to check on you regularly.
- Go slow by taking small amounts, especially if you haven’t used in a while. There is no safe dose of opioids.
- Wait long enough to feel the effects of what you took before taking more.
- Avoid mixing with alcohol or other drugs, especially drugs that make you sleepy.
- Seek treatment and support.
- Always dial 9-1-1 in the event of a medical emergency.
Overdose Prevention Resources
- Narcan kits, fentanyl testing strips, and xylazine testing strips are available free of cost at local community agencies:
- Naloxone (Narcan) is available at pharmacies via a statewide pharmacy standing order. Individuals will need to have insurance to access this standing order at no cost in a pharmacy. If you do not have insurance, dial 2-1-1 (1-877-211-8667) to receive assistance.
- Narcan and testing strips can also be ordered for free through NYS Office of Addiction Services and Supports (NYS OASAS), delivered to your residence. Order online at: https://oasas.ny.gov/harm-reduction.
- Another resource for individuals interested in obtaining free testing supplies can be found via: NY Matters
- For more information about drug checking programs: https://www.health.ny.gov/press/releases/2023/2023-10-23_drug_checking_programs.htm
- NYS OASAS “Project COPE” website for overdose prevention and harm reduction education
Addiction and Mental Health Community Resources
- Tompkins County Whole Health’s Mental Health Services: 607-274-6200
- Cayuga Addiction Recovery Services (CARS): 607-273-5500
- REACH Medical: 607-273-7000
- To find other available treatment programs throughout the state, use the NYS OASAS online directory.
- Ithaca Community Recovery’s support groups for individuals to help navigate your personal recovery, as well as for friends and families affected by their loved one’s substance use.
- NYS OASAS HOPEline, a 24/7 helpline to call or text for support. Call 1-877-8-HOPENY (467369) or Text HOPENY (467369) for immediate assistance.
- The 9-8-8 Lifeline call service is also available, 24/7, to speak confidentially with mental health professionals about your concerns; dial 9-8-8 to connect with this support.
- Need help finding help? Dial 2-1-1 (1-877-211-8667) for supportive, local referrals and resource connections.
Learn more about local opioid statistics and additional resources online: https://tompkinscountyny.gov/health/opioids.
Tompkins County Whole Health envisions a future where every person in Tompkins County can achieve wellness. Find us online at TompkinsCountyNY.gov/health, and follow us on Facebook at facebook.com/TompkinsWholeHealth and on Twitter at @TCWholeHealth. Get Whole Health updates or other county announcements via email or text, sign up here.
Media contact: Samantha Hillson, shillson@tompkins-co.org
-end-
