Hartford, Conn./WTIC Radio - A report out Monday from the state Department of Public Health says overdose deaths in Connecticut were down in 2024 for the third consecutive year.
DPH says the findings show a 26% decrease in the total number of deaths from overdose when compared to 2023.
Officials say some of the reasons for the decline include access and availability of life-saving medication and education.
The number of deaths to overdose last year was 990 confirmed, compared to 1,338 the year prior.
Three-quarters of those involved fentanyl.
“Let there be no doubt, the opioid crisis remains a very serious public health issue,” Governor Lamont said. “The 990 individuals we lost in 2024 to overdose is far too many of our family, friends, and loved ones to take a victory lap or celebrate when there is still so much more work to do.
DPH Commissioner Dr. Manisha Juthani said “These data from the DPH Drug Overdose Report are promising, but the hard work to protect public health and save lives continues.”
“Connecticut has demonstrated a clear commitment to reducing overdose deaths, and increasing access to harm reduction, treatment, and recovery supports. We are starting to see some positive results- and the work must continue," said Nancy Navarretta, the commisioner for the state Department of Mental Health and Addication Services.
There was an increase in the number of Harm Reduction Centers in those cities with the highest morbidity rates, including Hartford, Waterbury, New Haven, and New London, said the report, along with an increase in the number of naloxone kits distributed.