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Public Health Warning issued after 7 people fatally overdose in Cuyahoga County in two days

prescription opioids
Posted at 12:13 PM, May 23, 2019
and last updated 2019-05-23 12:13:30-04

CUYAHOGA COUNTY, Ohio — The Cuyahoga County Medical Examiner’s Office issued a Public Health Warning Thursday following seven overdose deaths over the past two days.

Health officials are still waiting on toxicology results to come in regarding the specific drug that caused the overdose, but officials said they suspect it is fentanyl.

“The recent spike in overdose deaths, which has also been noted across Ohio, is concerning and still likely a result of fentanyl. Fentanyl is continuing to impact our communities, both in the City of Cleveland and suburbs,” said Dr. Thomas Gilson. “If you or someone you know is suffering from an addiction, help is available through the ADAMHS Board of Cuyahoga County and programs such as Project DAWN. While we do not advocate using illegal drugs, someone addicted should avoid using drugs alone. Having someone in the vicinity to use naloxone and call 911 may save your life.”

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.