In the last two weeks, Wellington-Dufferin-Guelph Public health has reported 31 drug poisonings, including two deaths.
Public Health made the announcement on Thursday afternoon, saying substances circulating in the WDGPH area may be stronger than usual.
Most situations indicated the involvement of fentanyl with multiple colours being involved.
“Locally, our services do the best they can, we have really greats services that work hard and pilot new harm reduction and treatment processes whenever they can,” said Adrienne Crowder, Wellington Guelph Drug Strategy manager.
“But, we are all working within a policy framework that’s set by the province and federal government. We have a setup that says this class of drugs is prohibited and illegal and therefore you can only find them on the unregulated market and by the way, there is no quality control you’re playing Russian Roulette with the quality you get.”
In February, WGDS issued its first alert of 2022 concerning major drug poisoning. That alert from WGDS went out after five drug poisonings were reported in Guelph, including one fatality.
If you are using alone, the National Overdose Response Service is a free and anonymous service that you can call to check in on you. Available toll-free, 24/7 at 1-888-688-NORS (6677).
When using substances, Public Health advises carrying naloxone, never using alone and starting low and going slow with any new purchase.
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