Madison Reporter

Public Health Madison & Dane County has issued a public health alert following an increase in drug overdoses in the community. According to the agency, there were five confirmed overdose response calls from emergency medical services within a 24-hour period, which is higher than usual for the area. The data behind this alert comes from hospitals and EMS providers.

The cause of the spike remains unclear. Officials suggest that changes in the composition of street drugs, such as new mixtures of opiates, fentanyl, or other synthetic substances, may be contributing factors.

"First responders, healthcare providers, and people who use drugs and their families should be aware of the increased risk of overdose in our community. Sign up to get email or text alerts about overdose spikes on Public Health’s webpage," states Public Health Madison & Dane County.

The agency recommends several steps for those who use drugs or know someone who does: recognize signs of overdose (such as pale or clammy skin, blue lips or fingertips, slow or irregular breathing, and difficulty waking), always call 911 if an overdose is suspected, avoid using street drugs alone by contacting Never Use Alone at 800-484-3731, check in with friends and family who use drugs, test all substances for fentanyl before use, carry Narcan (naloxone) and be prepared to administer multiple doses if necessary.

Safer use supplies like fentanyl test strips and Narcan are available through the Syringe Services Program at Public Health Madison & Dane County locations at 2705 E. Washington Ave. and 2300 S. Park St. in Madison. For treatment and recovery resources, individuals can contact the Behavioral Health Resource Center of Dane County at (608) 267-2244.

Residents are encouraged to share this alert with others in order to help prevent further overdoses.