Overdose alert issued for Kelowna after spike in toxic drug deaths
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Interior Health has issued an overdose alert for Kelowna following a recent increase in toxic drug deaths linked to the local street supply. The alert is in effect until May 16.
The toxic drug that is linked to the recent overdose alert. (B.C. Interior Health/supplied)Officials say the current supply of “down,” a term used to describe a certain opioid, is highly unpredictable and often contaminated with benzodiazepines and other potent tranquilizers in addition to fentanyl. These combinations can significantly increase the risk of overdose and complicate response efforts, as they affect the body in different and overlapping ways.
Interior Health is urging people who use drugs to take extra precautions, including using drug checking services, which are available in Kelowna Monday to Friday from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. at 250-869-7870. The Kelowna Overdose Prevention Site at 1649 Pandosy St. is also open seven days a week from 11:30 a.m. to 10:30 p.m.
