WASHINGTON, D.C. — International Overdose Awareness Day (IOAD) is being observed on today, marking the world’s largest annual campaign to end overdose. The day aims to remember loved ones lost to drug overdose, support those affected by substance use and overdose, and raise awareness about overdose prevention strategies.
IOAD serves as an opportunity for individuals to publicly mourn their loved ones and send a powerful message of value and support to people who use drugs and those in recovery. It also aims to educate people globally about the risks of drug overdose and inform them about available support services. Evidence-based practices to prevent and reduce drug-related harms are emphasized.
To coincide with IOAD, the CDC’s Division of Overdose Prevention in the National Center for Injury Prevention and Control will release a new article highlighting the latest trends in drug overdose deaths and evidence of counterfeit pill use in the United States. The publication will provide crucial information to general audiences and the media to shed light on the current state of overdose fatalities.
Recognizing an overdose can be challenging, but it’s important to take action as if it were an overdose to potentially save a life. If unsure, calling 911 immediately and not leaving the person alone is advised. Administering naloxone, if available, can reverse an opioid overdose and should be carried by individuals at increased risk, especially those with opioid use disorder (OUD).
In ongoing efforts to combat the opioid epidemic, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) announced $1.1 million in awards to rural communities in Ohio. These funds will support strategies to address the overdose risk from fentanyl and other opioids. The objective is to advance President Biden’s commitment to combating the opioid crisis and provide assistance in accessing treatment and recovery services for individuals in rural areas, who often face challenges due to geographic isolation, transportation barriers, limited healthcare providers, and stigma. The HRSA funding will assist rural communities in expanding access to services tailored to their unique needs.
Notably, Ohio has faced a significant number of drug overdose deaths, with counties like Ross, Pike, and Scioto experiencing high rates. Fentanyl has been identified as a major contributor to overdose deaths nationwide.
International Overdose Awareness Day and the initiatives being undertaken serve as a reminder of the pressing need to address the opioid crisis, support individuals and families affected by overdose, and promote effective prevention strategies.
