Oneida County Overdose Response Team Issues Spike Alert

The Oneida County Overdose Response Team has issued an overdose spike alert regarding eight non-fatal overdoses that that occurred over the weekend and one fatality that was reported Monday morning.

The overdoses — which occurred in Utica, Rome, Whitesboro and Deerfield between July 28 and July 31, 2023 — involved opioids that were mainly identified as heroin. The presence of fentanyl is suspected in each overdose, but has yet to be confirmed. A greenish powdery substance was discovered in the case of the fatality, which occurred in Utica.

The Overdose Response Team conducts a rapid assessment to identify factors that may be contributing to overdose spikes. Individuals using all drugs should take the same harm reduction precautions as those using opioids such as carrying naloxone, fentanyl test strips and never using alone. 

People who use drugs and their loved ones can access treatment and recovery services by calling 211. Free Narcan-by-Mail is available through the Oneida County Health Department by visiting https://www.ocopioidtaskforce.org. Free, anonymous 24/7 access to naloxone, fentanyl test strips and other wellness supplies are also available at the new Public Health Kiosk located at the Giotto Center at 1002 Oswego Street in Utica. The Never Use Alone Hotline can be reached at 1-800-484-3731.