Toronto Public Health (TPH) has issued an alert following an increase in overdose deaths in the city.
The alert, dated July 22, said preliminary data from Toronto paramedics shows 10 suspected opioid overdose deaths were reported from July 17 to 21.
TPH said that including those deaths, there have been a total of 21 suspected opioid overdose deaths so far in July.
“There appears to be a potential increase in opioid and stimulant smoking deaths,” the alert said.
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TPH said it appears there was a “wide variety of drugs” involved in this spike in fatalities.
“Fentanyl continues to appear in the local drug supply in a variety of colors with unpredictable potency and contamination,” the alert said.
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According to TPH, the city’s drug enforcement agency has found higher amounts of fentanyl in fentanyl substances and possible evidence of fentanyl contamination from crack cocaine recently.
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The alert said paramedics in Toronto reported that drug inhalation equipment, such as pipes, were present at the scene in a “number” of overdose deaths.
Additionally, the health unit said overdoses are occurring in “a variety” of Toronto neighborhoods.
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TPH said if you plan to use drugs, don’t do it alone.
The health unit also said to use a supervised consumption site, if possible, and have a safety plan.
TPH said those who choose to use medication should also check their supply and should always keep naloxone nearby.
#DrugAlert: Paramedics responded to 21 suspected overdose calls in July, including 10 deaths from July 17-21. Please try not to use drugs alone. Use a consumption site, have someone check you out, or 📞line 1-888-688-6677 24/7: https://t.co/BLd0HK6LeT
— Toronto Public Health (@TOPublicHealth) July 22, 2022
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