Steuben County, grappling with the challenges of substance abuse, has reported a consistent number of overdoses in the last three months, according to the latest data from the county’s Public Health Department. October saw 23 overdoses, mirroring the figures from September, and marking a significant decrease from the higher numbers reported in the early summer. Notably, there were no fatal overdoses in October, a first since March.
The overdoses in October involved a range of substances, including alcohol, prescription drugs, marijuana, and other substances, with opioids being a suspected cause in three cases. Narcan, a medication used to counteract the effects of opioid overdose, was administered in eight of these cases. The steady overdose numbers come after a spike in the spring and early summer, with June recording the highest number at 42.
Steuben County Public Health officials have expressed relief at the absence of fatal overdoses in October and reiterated the department’s commitment to combating opioid use. The county offers both online and in-person Narcan training, and residents can access information on Narcan administration through the county’s website or the Steuben Prevention Coalition’s Opioid Committee.
Additionally, various local substance abuse services provide support and assistance to those battling addiction, with multiple contact numbers available for immediate help. The county’s concerted efforts in public health education and support services aim to continue addressing and mitigating the challenges of substance abuse within the community.
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