Lane County Public Health recommends safety precautions around substance use at festivals, concerts, and events. There is a continued prevalence of fentanyl in illicit drug supplies. The effects of fentanyl, a powerful illicit opioid, are seen in increased calls to 9-1-1, emergency room visits, and deaths.
In summer months, Lane County residents attend increased outdoor events that may include alcohol and illicit substance use. Because fentanyl is undetectable, public health officials recommend being educated and prepared to save lives.
An overdose from fentanyl can be reversed with the use of naloxone, sometimes known as Narcan, an overdose reversal medication that is safe, legal, and available over the counter for anyone to use in an emergency.
The signs of a fentanyl overdose include being unresponsive, having slowed or no breathing, having gray skin, or making gurgling or snoring sounds. If someone has these symptoms, call 9-1-1 immediately and administer naloxone.
Some substances can be tested for fentanyl with fentanyl testing strips. And many festivals and events may offer drug testing services to reduce risk but it’s important to know that no test can be 100 percent accurate.
You can learn more through Fentanyl Aware Lane County by visiting www.fentanylaware.com.