RI State Health Department: Spike In Overdoses May 21-27

PROVIDENCE, RI — The health department is reporting a spike in drug overdoses statewide during the week of May 21-May 27. In a typical week in 2018, the hospitals deal with 29 overdoses, counting both fatal and non-fatal. According to Joseph Wendelken, public information officer at the health department, this past week saw 44 overdoses. None of the 44 overdoses was fatal.

The reason for the spike is not known, he said.

"However, we do know that fentanyl is driving Rhode Island’s drug overdose crisis at this point," he said. People should be aware that fentanyl is prevalent here.

"If someone is using heroin or other opioids, they should assume that they are also using the extremely lethal drug fentanyl," he said. Also, no prescription is needed for the antidote naloxone. It should be on hand "if someone you know is using drugs," he said. Finally, for help fighting addiction, call 401-942-STOP.

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