Midland, MI – In an alarming development, Dr. William Morrone, the Medical Examiner overseeing Arenac, Bay, Iosco, Midland, and Tuscola Counties, has reported a sharp increase in drug overdose deaths across these regions. Over the span of just 11 days, six individuals have tragically lost their lives due to overdoses.
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Dr. Morrone emphasized the severity of the situation, describing the recent spike in deaths as “very unusual.” He has issued a stern warning about a particularly dangerous batch of fentanyl circulating in the area. “There is a really bad batch of fentanyl, and we need to warn the public and first responders,” he stated, underscoring the urgent need for community awareness and safety measures.
In response to this crisis, Dr. Morrone has outlined several immediate actions for the public to take to protect themselves and others:
- Those in need are urged to seek treatment immediately.
- Narcan (naloxone), a life-saving medication that can reverse the effects of an opioid overdose, should be kept readily accessible. The Midland County Department of Public Health provides Narcan free of charge, with a list of distribution locations available on their website.
- Narcan should be administered during a suspected overdose before emergency services are contacted.
- Community members are advised against using drugs alone.
- The use of fentanyl test strips is recommended to check substances for the presence of fentanyl.
- Mixing drugs should be avoided to reduce the risk of fatal interactions.
- Individuals are encouraged to seek treatment if they struggle with substance use.
The ongoing risk of fatal overdoses is particularly high among individuals who use stimulants like cocaine or methamphetamines and depressants such as fentanyl or other opioids.
Additional resources for treatment and harm reduction, including the Mi Hope Portal for addiction services and the CDC’s guidelines on fentanyl test strips, are available to assist those affected by the crisis. Dr. Morrone’s call to action is a critical reminder of the devastating impact of the opioid epidemic and the importance of community vigilance and preparedness to prevent further loss of life.
