An increase in the number of opioid overdoses and concerns about the safety of the illicit drug supply have prompted an emergency meeting of the Windsor Essex Community Opioid and Substance Strategy.
Representatives from 32 community partners under the strategy met on Tuesday.
Recent data from the province and federal government show the overdose crisis in Ontario is being driven by an increasingly toxic and unpredictable drug supply. Testing shows a mix of dangerous substances, including synthetic opioids, benzodiazepines, tranquillizers, and other contaminants that raise the risk of overdose. The Office of the Chief Coroner for Ontario recently reported 224 suspected drug-related deaths in January.
In large cities like Toronto, drug checking services are finding highly contaminated fentanyl, often mixed with veterinary tranquillizers like medetomidine and xylazine.
"Our partners are increasing access to naloxone and drug test strips, sharing up-to-date information about drug supply, and working with hospitals and the Windsor Essex County Health Unit to learn more about what substances are being used," said Eric Nadalin, director of public health programs at the health unit and co-chair of WECOSS. "By taking these steps together, we can respond more effectively and help protect the people at greatest risk."
The strategy issued an opioid alert earlier this week after 19 opioid-related visits to area emergency departments last week. Of those visits, 16 involved fentanyl.
Community partners say some of the current drug supply in Windsor and Essex County may include beige or brown fentanyl. The drug can be identified by its dry, chunky texture. It can cause hallucinations and fatigue, which may indicate the drugs contain other depressants or contaminants.
