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The recent spike of drug overdoses in the South Okanagan has prompted Interior Health to issue a warning to residents.
The Osoyoos RCMP issued a statement on Thursday saying there have been an increased number of overdoses in both Oliver and Osoyoos. While police are not certain on the number of overdoses or which drugs were involved, they are working diligently to find out what the root cause is.
Interior Health is now urging residents to think twice about drug use in the wake of these serious overdoses, which have occurred over the past two weeks.
“All substance use carries an inherent risk to a person. The risk is even greater with street drugs because you never know what they may contain. Often street drugs have been mixed with other substances and that can have serious consequences for the user,” said Jeff Walsh, Harm Reduction Coordinator with Interior Health.
While not using drugs at all is the best way to avoid overdose and other health impacts, health-care providers recognize some people will continue to use drugs. Interior Health is offering the following tips to help reduce the risk:
Don’t mix different drugs (including pharmaceutical medications, street drugs, and alcohol).
Don’t take drugs when you are alone.
Take a small sample of a drug before taking your usual dosage.
Never experiment with higher doses.
Keep an eye out for your friends – stay together and look out for each other.
Recognize the signs of an OD. Headache, nausea, confusion, vomiting, shakes, fainting are serious. Get medical help ASAP.
If someone thinks they may be having an overdose or is witnessing an overdose, call 9-1-1 immediately, do not delay.
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