JEFFERSON COUNTY, Ala. (WBRC) – Drug overdose deaths are on the decline locally, but health leaders don’t want the community to let their guard down.
Fentanyl continues to pose a significant risk. The coroner recently told WBRC that this drug is the drug that has killed the most people in Jefferson County.
Dr. David Hicks, health officer for the Jefferson County Health Department, said everyone should have Narcan, not just drug users. This drug is a nasal spray that helps prevent opioid overdose.
Since last year, it has been available for purchase in stores. The county health department is also distributing them along with fentanyl test strips.
Health officials said they don’t know when they will be needed.
“You might be surprised. You might be jogging down the street. You might be outside of work or school. You might be in this situation where someone just overdosed. And you can do life-saving treatment without actually having a paramedic immediately available,” Hicks said.
If you find yourself in a situation like this, you still need to call 911, but every second counts, and Narcan can save your life.
The Jefferson County Health Department is training people on how to use these medications.
The public can learn more about the program here.
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