The North Bay Parry Sound District Health Unit has issued a community drug alert after nine overdoses were reported between July 23 and August 2.
Officials say one resulted in the death of a person and one is known to have had a single dose of naloxone given at the scene.
The Health Unit is advising people who use substances to take extra precautions following the confirmation of more toxic substances confirmed to be circulating in the unregulated drug supply across the Simcoe and Muskoka districts.
They say it’s known to cause extreme sedation and poses a risk of stopping breathing.
North Bay Police recently warned of the potential for carfentanil and fluorofentanyl in the unregulated drug supply, which are far more potent than fentanyl.
The Health Unit advises:
- Check your drug with a testing strip, if available.
- Use in a safe space with people you trust, and who will respond with naloxone if needed.
- If using alone, call or text the National Overdose Response Line at 1-888-688-6677 or have a friend check-in on you.
- If your high feels unusual or if you are with someone who is experiencing an overdose, call 911.
- Have naloxone on-hand and ensure your kit is well stocked.
For more information, visit myhealthunit.ca/naloxone.
