CINCINNATI — The Hamilton County Addiction Response Coalition has issued an alert to the public after identifying an abnormal increase in overdoses within the past week.
From Sept. 20-26, the Hamilton County Coroner's Office reported 10 suspected overdose deaths, pending toxicology confirmation. In a release, the coalition says the county has also seen a jump in the number of overdose-related 911 calls.
While fentanyl is nothing new to the community, local officials say the increase in overdose deaths is likely related to people unknowingly consuming fentanyl-laced substances or failing to use harm-reduction strategies like keeping Narcan, fentanyl test strips or safe injection supplies on-site.
Cocaine, crack cocaine and methamphetamine are increasingly being laced with fentanyl, officials said. Anyone who wants Narcan or safe supplies is asked to call Hamilton County Public Health at 513-316-7725 or visit their website. People can also get Narcan or test strips mailed directly to them by texting NARCAN or FTS to #22999.
If someone overdoses, officials say to call 911 immediately — even if Narcan is administered. The state's Good Samaritan Law protects people from any legal consequences while seeking help during overdoses.
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