Island Health is warning residents of Greater Victoria about an increase in drug poisonings in the region.
The health authority issued an overdose advisory on Wednesday.
“Friends, family and community members using opioids and stimulants face increased risk from injection and inhalation,” said Island Health.
The health authority encourages people to stagger drug use with a friend so that someone can respond or call for help if necessary.
People can also visit Island Health overdose prevention sites or download the Lifeguard app, which can connect people to emergency services and has information on how to use Naloxone or give CPR.
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The health authority is reminding residents that Naloxone can be picked up for free in B.C., and access locations can be found online.
Free and confidential drug checking is also available in Victoria, Nanaimo, Port Alberni, Duncan, Campbell River and the Comox Valley.
Samples can also be sent to the Substance drug checking facility in Victoria by mail.
More information about overdose prevention services on Vancouver Island can be found on the Island Health website.
Please Share: A #DrugPoisoning Advisory has been issued for #GreaterVictoria.
Visit our #OverdosePrevention Services page at https://t.co/tGOQyd7wS5 to find information on supervised consumption sites, drug-checking services & more. pic.twitter.com/0qVOfEy3xS
— Island Health (@VanIslandHealth) September 13, 2023
Adam Chan
