Alert issued after 10 suspected overdose deaths in one week in Hamilton County

The Hamilton County Addiction Response Coalition has issued an alert to the public after identifying an abnormal increase in overdoses within the past week.

From Sept. 20-26, the Hamilton County Coroner's Office reported 10 suspected overdose deaths, pending toxicology confirmation. In a release, the coalition says the county has also seen a jump in the number of overdose-related 911 calls.

While fentanyl is nothing new to the community, local officials say the increase in overdose deaths is likely related to people unknowingly consuming fentanyl-laced substances or failing to use harm-reduction strategies like keeping Narcan, fentanyl test strips or safe injection supplies on-site.

"They're probably users of other drugs like methamphetamine, cocaine, something along that line, not knowing fentanyl is in their drug," said Tom Synan, Newtown police chief and addiction response coalition member. "Another part of the mix (of deaths) may be people who are chronic users."

Cocaine, crack cocaine and methamphetamine are increasingly being laced with fentanyl, officials said. Anyone who wants Narcan or safe supplies is asked to call Hamilton County Public Health at 513-316-7725 or visit their website. People can also get Narcan or test strips mailed directly to them by texting NARCAN or FTS to #22999.

If someone overdoses, officials say to call 911 immediately — even if Narcan is administered. The state's Good Samaritan Law protects people from any legal consequences while seeking help during overdoses.

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