The Erie County Health Department and District Attorney are sending a joint warning to the public about an uptick in fatal opioid overdoses, many of which they suggest involve fentanyl-laced cocaine.
“So far there have been 42 confirmed opioid overdose related deaths. And there are more than 100 cases pending toxicology results in the Medical Examiner's office,” said Health Commissioner Dr. Gale Burstein.
Thirteen confirmed fatal overdoses have come since May 13.
Erie County District Attorney John Flynn says more recently an emergence of cocaine mixed with fentanyl has complicated the issue. He renewed a vow to punish those dealing fentanyl-laced drugs, stating that a zero-tolerance policy involving fentanyl that his office has held since 2017 also applies to cases involving cocaine.
“If you're a cocaine dealer, and you are lacing your cocaine with fentanyl, you are going to be prosecuted to the fullest extent by my office, and you will go to jail. It's as simple as that,” Flynn said. “On the other front, we continue to help those with substance abuse disorders. Through our opioid court, through our drug court, through diversion programs, those programs are now up and running. They're back in action, after having a bit of a shutdown during COVID.”
The county health department offers five steps to help users survive. First, always have Narcan handy. Second, never use drugs alone. Third, one should take advantage of available free testing strips that help detect fentanyl. Fourth, seek support. Fifth, seek treatment.
“Our department has received 163 requests for Narcan through our Text for Narcan program,” Burstein said. “That number is 716-225-5473. Remember, it's 716-225-5473.”
She added that the county has also just launched a program to provide Narcan supplies and informational materials to bars, restaurants and other public establishments.
Last year, according to county officials, there were 286 fatal opioid overdoses. An estimated 40 percent of them involved cocaine mixed with fentanyl.
