Island Health has issued overdose advisories for Port Alberni and the Cowichan Valley.
The advisory was issued on June 1, 2021 due to an increase in overdoses in Port Alberni from both opioids and stimulants. Sheena Campbell, North Island Regional Harm Reduction Coordinator, said that there is an increased risk with both injection and inhalation.
The advisory directs bystanders to call 911 immediately and administer naloxone if someone overdoses.
For safer use, Island Health advises having substances checked at the local Overdose Prevention Site (3699 Third Avenue). Other strategies include carrying naloxone, using with a friend or using close to help, staggering use with a friend so someone can respond and doing a tester before a regular hit. The Lifeguard App, which offers a CPR and naloxone guide is a recommended tool for those who use drugs. You can also contact the National Overdose Response Service at 1-888-688-6677.
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