KALAMAZOO, MI (WKZO AM/FM) – Health officials have linked fentanyl-laced cocaine to the deadly overdose surge in Kalamazoo County between Wednesday, April 12 and Thursday, April 13.
The Kalamazoo County Health & Community Services Department, in tandem with the Kalamazoo County Medical Examiner, identified a total of 18 cases to include ten hospitalizations and seven deaths.
According to Kalamazoo County Medical Director Dr. William Nettleton, the severe cluster of drug overdoses was likely due to an unintentional exposure to fenanyl in individuals whose intended drug was cocaine. He went onto say that a rapid onset of overdose can occur with exposure to fentanyl, particularly in individuals who do not know whether fentanyl is present or do not have a history of using opioids such as fentanyl.
Officials say no further cases connected to the overdose spike have occurred since April 13.
While the best way to avoid the risk of overdose is not to use drugs, people who do use or are experiencing substance use disorder can reduce the risk of fatal overdose by following the tips below:
- Keep naloxone readily available on you and at home. Naloxone can help reverse an opioid overdose and can be obtained through the COPE Network and Kalamazoo Harm Reduction at 269-580-8290. Naloxone can also be obtained without a prescription at these pharmacies: https://bit.ly/3osBD2X.
- Never use drugs alone. Make sure a designated person who has not taken drugs is available to administer naloxone or call for emergency assistance.
