Community Corner
Nassau Warns Of Possibly Tainted Drugs After Overdose Spike
People with illegal drugs should be careful, officials said, as they may contain fatal amounts of fentanyl.
NASSAU COUNTY, NY — Following a spike in overdoses across the area, Nassau County officials are warning people against using non-prescribed drugs.
While the dangers of illicit drug use are well known, there has been an increase in both fatal and non-fatal overdoses since Jan. 13, officials said. They warned that it could be caused by counterfeit pills and opioids that are laced with fentanyl.
Fentanyl is a synthetic opioid that is 50 to 100 times stronger than morphine. As a powder, it can be mixed with heroin or turned into pills. Just a small dose can be fatal.
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County officials are warning anyone using illegal drugs to be extremely cautious. Pills can be made by drug dealers that appear to be opioids, like oxycodone, but actually contain fentanyl.
If you are in possession of any controlled substance that is either expired or in need of disposal, the medication can be brought to any Nassau County Police Precinct 24/7 to be properly and safely disposed of.
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Residents in need of treatment, information and referrals for addiction can contact the Nassau County 24/7 HELPline at (516) 277-TALK (8255).
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