STAUNTON, Va. (WHSV) -According to the Virginia Department of Health,1,879 Virginians died from opioid overdose in 2023, and 1,772 of those overdose deaths came from fentanyl and other synthetic opioids. In the valley, the Central Shenandoah Health District is taking steps to curb the issue.
“If we can decrease overdoses by one, then we consider that a success every year,” said Rachel Dumene, communications specialist for the CSHD.
The VDH said opioid overdose deaths decreased in Virginia from 2022 to 2023. Although most of the Central Shenandoah Health District is in the mid to low range when it comes to these numbers, Dumene said it’s still a major public health concern.
“It is still of significance for us to spread awareness, education and resources that help people who are at risk of opioid overdose,” she said.
In 2023, the CSHD trained over 960 people on how to administer naxolone, distributing nearly 900 doses of naxolone, and over 330 fentanyl test strips.
“People overdose on substances they’re not even sure they’re consuming,” said Dumene. “We want to make sure people are educated on the appearance of fentanyl in other substances that they might not expect it to be in.”
Dumene said anyone can have an opioid overdose at any time, which is why it’s important to have naxolene in your first aid kit. All of these services are confidential.
If you or a loved one are struggling with substance abuse, you can call the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration hotline at 1-800-662-HELP (4357).
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