Fentanyl suspected on P.E.I. after 5 overdoses on weekend | CBC News
[ad_1]
P.E.I.’s Chief Public Health Office has issued a public alert for the presence of a highly potent opioid suspected to be fentanyl in the province.
There were five confirmed overdoses reported on P.E.I. from March 1-3. There have been no deaths related to the cases, the CPHO said in a news release.
In all five of these cases, naloxone was administered, temporarily reversing the overdose event and allowing time for follow-up medical attention.
“This is an important reminder that carrying naloxone and informing others who may use drugs that naloxone is available are important steps to reduce the risk of possible overdoses,” said Dr. Heather Morrison, the chief public health officer in the release.
Free naloxone kits are available at several locations across the province, including the Health P.E.I. Needle Exchange Program.
Symptoms of an overdose include slow or no breathing, inability to move or be awaken, blue or grey lips or nails, and gurgling or snoring sounds.
The CPHO said anyone who suspects an overdose should call 911.
[ad_2]