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6 people have fatally overdosed in Cuyahoga County in 24 hours

Public Health Alert issued
Cuyahoga County
Posted at 12:53 PM, Aug 21, 2019
and last updated 2019-08-21 12:53:28-04

CLEVELAND — The Cuyahoga County Medical Examiner’s Office has issued a Public Health Alert following six overdose deaths in 24 hours.

According to authorities, there have been a total of 10 overdose deaths since Sunday.

“We are seeing another cluster of apparent overdose deaths. Our recent experience indicates that this is likely related to fentanyl, possibly also carfentanil. These dangerous drugs may be mixed with other drugs like cocaine or heroin with significant increases in risk of death,” said Dr. Thomas Gilson. “Naloxone kits, fentanyl test strips, and not using drugs alone are some strategies that have been shown to save lives.”

Anyone in need of a fentanyl testing kit can pick one up at the following locations:

  • Circle Health Services, 12201 Euclid Ave.
  • Care Alliance Clinic, 2916 Central Ave.

Opioid addiction recovery information and services can be obtained by calling Project DAWN at 216-778-5677. You can also contact the Alcohol, Drug Addiction and Mental Health Services (ADAMHS) Board of Cuyahoga County’s 24-hour crisis hotline at 216-623-6888.

A similar warning was issued earlier this year when seven people fatally overdosed in May.