Health unit promoting a harm reduction strategy for Fentanyl addicts

We told you last week about a community effort to deal with the impact of Fentanyl.

One approach being tried by the health unit is to educate addicts so they don’t die from an overdose.

Medical Officer of Health Dr. Jim Chirico says they have a harm reduction approach with the idea for addicts to trust the health authorities.

He says they recommend addicts have a nalaxone kit available and call 911.

Chirico recommends addicts not do drugs alone.

“You need to have a plan in place when you use drugs so you don’t overdose. Have a Naloxone kit with you so you and people around you know how to use it,” he says.

Chirico says if you are using a Naloxone kit call 911.

“Only 46 % of people who use these kits are actually calling 911′ Chirico says.

Chirico says in many cases addicts have no idea what they’re getting on the street and often it’s not what they think they’re getting.