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County officials warn of spike in overdoses; public-health alert urges testing and naloxone
Summary
Hamilton County officials said seven overdose deaths occurred over three days and urged residents to test drugs, carry naloxone and seek help; public-health partners issued an alert about dangerous fentanyl mixes in the local supply.
Hamilton County commissioners flagged a public-health alert on Feb. 20 after county and city health officials reported seven overdose deaths over three days.
Commissioner Denise Driehaus told the board the alert was intended to warn residents that the local drug supply may contain high levels of fentanyl or carfentanil and that using illicit substances carries heightened risk. "We had 7 overdose deaths over the span of 3 days in Hamilton County, which is a very high number," she said.
Driehaus said the county is working with Hamilton County Public Health and partner agencies to distribute information about testing, reduce harm and encourage the use of naloxone (Narcan). "People need to be testing. They need to have Narcan, and families need to be aware of what's going on," she said.
The board asked for continued public messaging and coordination with community providers to ensure naloxone availability and treatment referrals. Commissioners noted the alert is aimed both at people who use drugs and their families so they can recognize risks and respond quickly.
No new policy or funding change was approved at the meeting; the discussion was a public-safety update and a call for outreach and prevention activities.
