(Owego, NY) – Tioga County Public Health has observed a spike in drug overdoses in Tioga County between April 28-30, 2023. Two of the documented overdoses over the weekend were fatal. While it is unknown if the overdoses are related, the public is warned about the possibility of a substance laced with a potent opioid in our area. It is noted that there have been additional overdose deaths in our region over the last several days.
Overdose deaths frequently involve fentanyl, a synthetic opioid that is up to 50 times stronger than heroin, and often unknowingly mixed in with other substances. Tioga County Public Health recommends that family members, caregivers, and people who spend time with those who have a substance use disorder know the signs of an opioid overdose, which include:
• Cold, clammy skin
• Difficulty waking or speaking
• Slow or no heart rate
• Slow or no breathing
• Limp body
• Pinpoint pupils
• Gurgling or choking sounds
• Blue or purplish lips or fingernails
Shawn Nalepa, Captain of Operations at Tioga County Sheriff’s Office reminds the public to call 911 if these symptoms of an overdose are present.
An opioid overdose can be reversed by using the medication Narcan, also known as Naloxone, when administered in time. Due to Tioga County’s large geographic make up, first responders may not make it to a scene in time to reverse an overdose. Keeping Narcan on hand can greatly increase the chance of survival should an opioid overdose be occurring. Narcan is not addictive and does not cause harm if administered during another medical emergency.
Narcan nasal spray is free and available through the following agencies in Tioga County:
Tioga County Public Health
1062 State Route 38
Owego, NY 13827
607-687-8612
Tioga County Mental Hygiene
1062 State Route 38
Owego, NY 13827
607-687-0200
CASA-Trinity
72 North Ave.
Owego, NY 13827
607-223-4066
Narcan may also be available through your pharmacy. To find additional locations in New York State where Narcan may be accessed, please visit https://providerdirectory.aidsinstituteny.org/.
