NEW YORK (WCBS 880) — New York City overdose deaths spiked 36% over a 12-month window during the coronavirus pandemic, according to new data.
The five boroughs recorded 2,243 drug overdose deaths during the 12-month window between March 31, 2020, and March 31, 2021 — up from the 1,653 such deaths reported in the same period in the preceding 12 months, according to data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
The uptick mirrors nationwide trends. The United States reported a record-high 96,779 overdose deaths during that window, a 29.6% when comparing the same time periods — and the CDC warns that its data is likely an undercount.
Health officials have warned that the trauma experienced during the pandemic could lead to an increase in such deaths.
"It is important to remember that behind these devastating numbers are families, friends, and community members who are grieving the loss of loved ones," Regina LaBelle, acting director of the Executive Office of the President Office of National Drug Control Policy, said in a statement.
LaBelle and President Joe Biden have urged Congress to fund his budget request to improve programs targeting substance abuse and treatment.
“[The] CDC data are also a reminder of how urgent it is for Congress to fully fund President Biden’s budget request to expand access to substance use prevention, treatment, harm reduction, and recovery support services as well as to reduce the supply of drugs in communities across the country,” LaBelle added.
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