WELLINGTON COUNTY – Four overdose deaths have been reported in Wellington County and Guelph in the last week.
A March 1 press release from Wellington-Dufferin-Guelph Public Health (WDGPH) noted the deaths, which took place in the Guelph, Rockwood, Elora and Arthur areas, all occurred since Feb. 21.
Fentanyl is believed to be involved these deaths, which may suggest a stronger than normal substance is circulating in the community, public health officials stated.
Red and purple-coloured fentanyl were indicated in two of the deaths, but officials warn that “any-coloured substance” can “pose significant risk.”
“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,” states the WDGPH release. The service is available toll-free, 24/7 at: 1-888-688-NORS (6677).
Another option is the Overdose Prevention Line at 1-888-853-8542.
Public health also offers the following advice to reduce the risk of overdose:
- carry naloxone;
- never use alone, but also maintain two metres distance during the pandemic;
- start low and go slow (e.g., with any new purchase, start with 1/3 of a normal dose); and
- use the Consumption and Treatment Services Site (CTS) supervised by health professionals at Guelph’s Community Health Centre.
For more information, visit wdgpublichealth.ca/harmreduction.
