Island Health has extended an overdose advisory for the region for the second time.
The health authority issued the extension for Greater Victoria on Tuesday (April 27), warning that – two weeks after the original advisory went out – there’s still an increase of opioid and stimulant overdoses in the region and increased risk with injection and inhalation.
Overdoses advisories in the Comox Valley, Nanaimo and Campbell River were also extended on Tuesday.
READ: Island Health extends overdose advisory for Greater Victoria
The advisory extension directs bystanders to call 911 immediately and administer naloxone if someone overdoses.
For safer use, Island Health advises having substances checked, 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, as well as a crisis and 811 nurses line, is also a recommended tool for those who use drugs.
Victoria’s overdose prevention services are available at The Harbour (941 Pandora Ave.) and Rock Bay Landing (533 Ellice St.).
READ: Vancouver Island could be at its worst point of overdose crises yet: medical health officer
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