There were over a dozen opioid-related deaths in Sarnia-Lambton in the first six months of the year.
In its September opioid surveillance bulletin, Lambton Public Health said from January 1, 2023 to June, 2023 there were 15 opioid overdose-related deaths, up from 13 during the same timeframe last year.
In 2022, the health unit reported a total of 32 related deaths, down from 38 in 2021.
Data from both years is still considered preliminary.
Lambton EMS responded to 16 opioid-related overdose calls in September, down only slightly from 20 in August.
Visits to area emergency departments were up slightly in September, six compared to four the month before.
Drug users are reminded that free naloxone kits are available at Lambton Public Health and at local pharmacies.
The health unit said since the beginning of the year, they've distributed 3,227 kits.
