Grand Erie Public Health is warning residents about a spike in suspected drug-related deaths across the region. According to data from the Office of the Chief Coroner, 10 drug-related deaths were reported between January 1 and February 1 with five in Brantford-Brant and five in Haldimand-Norfolk.
Three of the Brantford-Brant deaths occurred within a single week, between January 26 and February 1. Officials say this number is higher than what is typically seen over such a short period, and the substances involved remain unknown.
Public health officials are urging caution, especially for those using drugs that are not prescribed.
Unregulated substances can contain unpredictable levels of potency or dangerous contaminants, increasing the risk of overdose. New or occasional users are considered particularly vulnerable.
Anyone who suspects an overdose is urged to call 9-1-1 immediately. If available, naloxone should be administered, even if opioids were not believed to be involved.
Naloxone temporarily reverses opioid overdoses and will not harm someone if opioids are not present, but its effects can wear off before full recovery, making emergency medical treatment essential.
Grand Erie Public Health also reminds residents that the Good Samaritan Drug Overdose Act protects people from simple possession charges when they call for help during an overdose.
The law is designed to remove fear and encourage people to seek emergency assistance without hesitation.
To reduce overdose risk, residents are encouraged not to use drugs alone, to take small test doses, and to carry naloxone whenever possible.
Drug checking test strips for fentanyl and xylazine are available through SOAR Community Services at locations in Brantford and Simcoe, as well as through the Positive Health Network Van.
Support is also available through the National Overdose Response Service at 1-888-688-6677, which provides phone monitoring for people who use alone.
Grand Erie Public Health says harm reduction services and additional information about overdose prevention can be found through the Legacy Brant County Health Unit and the Legacy Haldimand Norfolk Health Unit websites.