LAKE COUNTY, Ill. (WBBM NEWSRADIO) -- The Lake County Health Department is reporting a sharp increase in opioid overdoses.
The health department said that between February 24 and March 1 – a period of less than two weeks, there were 14 overdose emergency room visits.
The health department also said that what they’re seeing in Lake County is part of a nationwide surge in overdoses, often involving fentanyl.
The recent overdoses, according to the department, do not appear to be connected.
“We must take steps to alleviate overdose deaths and save lives," Lake County Health Department Executive Director Mark Pfister said/
The health department has been giving out free Naloxone to first responders and community members. Naloxone can reverse the effects of an overdose if used in time.
“Naloxone is a safe and effective life-saving medication that is known to save lives," said Lake County Health Department Medical Epidemiologist Dr. Sana Ahmed. " It can easily be administered into the nose by anyone, including friends, family, and, non-medical community members.”
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