We have a deadly epidemic in our community, it’s called FENTANYL. Illegally made fentanyl is the primary driver of the recent increase in all U.S. overdose deaths. Data show that fentanyl was involved in more deaths of Americans under 50 than any cause of death, including heart disease, cancer, suicide, homicide, other accidents and illnesses. Fentanyl has also shown a disproportionate impact on youth. Youth deaths are fastest growing among 14- to 23-year-olds.
Deceit has driven the increase in fentanyl deaths. Drug dealers are contacting youth through social media, primarily Snapchat and money transfer apps. Fentanyl is being cut into other substances (most pills and powders) without the person’s knowledge or consent. Of the most common street pills, 98% are fake. Of those, 98% contain straight fentanyl. A very small amount can be deadly. If the pill is not prescribed to you or from a pharmacy, assume it is fake.
In 2021, Sacramento County lost 116 people to fentanyl-related deaths. One death is too many.
UNITING AROUND AWARENESS-KNOWLEDGE IS KEY
On May 10, the National Fentanyl Awareness Day virtual event will spread potentially lifesaving information about illicit fentanyl hidden in fake/counterfeit pills and street drugs.
There is an urgent need to alert the public to the unprecedented increase in drug-related deaths driven by fentanyl, raise awareness about illicit fentanyl in fake/counterfeit pills and street drugs and to initiate a local and national conversation about solutions. The goal is to leverage as many organizations and communication channels as possible to reach the most vulnerable populations.
“Together, we can make a difference and have a profound impact in reducing overdose or poisoning deaths by informing others about the dangers of fentanyl,” said Lori Miller, Division Manager with Sacramento County Department of Health Services.
Anyone who uses drugs, whether experimenting for the first time, partying on the weekend, or suffering from a substance use disorder is playing Russian roulette with their life and at risk of overdose or poisoning.
THE CALL TO ACTION
The call to action for National Fentanyl Awareness Day is simple:
- Talk to your friends and family members about the danger of fentanyl
- Spread the word on social media
- Promote the campaign hashtag #NationalFentanylAwarenessDay
- Have Naloxone/Narcan (overdose reversal drug) available in the event of overdose
- Visit the Day's website to find shareable content, a partner toolkit and more information.
Services are available for youth, young adults, perinatal/parenting women, adults and seniors. Services will be provided to meet your
cultural and language needs free of charge.
If you feel you or a loved one may be struggling with substance use, you’re not alone. We understand how overwhelming it can be to consider seeking help. We are here to support you in the first step or journey toward wellness. Staff is available to discuss your treatment options and answer any questions you may have about the process. Call us today at 916-874-9754 to take the first step toward recovery and a healthier life. For youth treatment, call 916-875-2050. For more information on Naloxone/Narcan or other resources, please visit the resource page of
1pillcankillsac.com.