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Norwood Health Department distributes free Narcan kits, offers CPR and vaccine clinics
Summary
The town's public health nurse described a free naloxone (Narcan) distribution program with brief training, fentanyl test strips, and CPR/AED training; the department also confirmed flu-clinic plans for Oct. 1 and that MMR vaccine is available by appointment. The health department is not offering COVID vaccine this season.
Diana Hillery, the town's public health nurse, told the Board of Health on Sept. 15 that the Health Department is offering free naloxone (Narcan) kits, short trainings on how to use them, fentanyl test strips and a brief review of overdose signs, and CPR/AED instruction.
"You can give me a call at (781) 384-9195 if you wanna, get a free NARCAN kit," Hillery said, describing a roughly 10-minute training that will accompany distribution of the packet. Hillery said the kits include two nasal naloxone doses (two because a second dose may be needed) and fentanyl test strips; she also said the department can provide basic CPR training and certify people for American Heart Association credentials after online coursework.
Hillery said expired kits retain some potency and that the department will replace kits for residents who bring them in; she noted the packets in hand have long expiration dates and that the department received free Narcan from a state substance-use bureau.
On vaccines, Hillery said Norwood will offer a flu clinic at the senior center on Oct. 1 (9 a.m. to noon) by appointment and that the health department provides routine childhood vaccines such as MMR by request. The board confirmed the department will not be providing the COVID vaccine this year, citing limited local demand and pharmacy availability; members urged residents to check pharmacies and other providers for COVID shots and RSV immunizations. Hillery said the Health Department has MMR vaccine available and is coordinating with school nurses to reach students who lack required immunizations.
Hillery also described the cost structure for CPR certification: she said the American Heart Association online portion costs about $23 and the in-person skills validation with the town trainer costs $25, bringing the total under $50 for most non-healthcare participants. She added the town can provide basic life-support (BLS) certification for healthcare providers with a different price structure.
The board directed staff to continue advertising the Narcan kits, CPR offerings, and the Oct. 1 flu clinic on town channels.
