BEND, OR -- Deschutes County health officials say a recent rise in drug overdose deaths is linked to a combination of fentanyl and other substances. Four people died in a six-day span, leading to an urgent warning for drug users and their families and friends to take extra precautions.

The overdose reversal drug Naloxone is available at most pharmacies, and everyone who associates with an addict is encouraged to carry it. Click HERE for more information on how to spot and respond to an overdose. 

 

The Deschutes County Harm Reduction Program recommends the following steps and strategies for community members: 

1.  Assume any substance purchased on the street may contain unknown substances.

2.  Make sure everyone in the area can access Naloxone (aka Narcan) and knows how to administer it.

3.  Naloxone is safe. Even if naloxone is given to someone who is not experiencing an overdose, it will not harm them.

Get Support: If you or someone you care about is struggling with drug or alcohol use, here are some resources that can help:

• Drug and Alcohol Helpline: (800) 923-4357) or Text: ‘Recovery Now’ to 839863. Help line for individuals and family members seeking crisis intervention, treatment referral, and chemical-dependency information: linesforlife.org/alcohol-and-drug-helpline
• Crisis Services: Contact the crisis line by dialing 988 or (541) 322-7500 x9 or call (800) 875-7364 (toll free) or
• Stabilization Center at 63311 NE Jamison Street Bend, OR 97703 which is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. 
• Youth Crisis line: (877) 968-8491 Text: ‘teen2teen’ to 839863. A teen-to-teen crisis and helpline for youth and teens. Teens available to help daily from 4 -10 p.m. (off-hour calls are answered by the crisis line) oregonyouthline.org
• Mental Health Care Services: (541) 322-7500 to schedule an initial appointment with the Access Team to access counseling, substance use treatment, peer support services, and more.