SEATTLE (AP) — Washington health officials are urging the public to carry naloxone as drug-related overdose deaths climb statewide at an “alarming” rate.
Overdose deaths in Washington surpassed 2,000 last year — a more than 66% increase since 2019, according to data released Tuesday by the state Department of Health. More than half of all overdose deaths involve fentanyl, the Seattle Times reported.
Deaths are growing fastest among Black, Hispanic and Native American/Alaska Native people, with the majority being men 45 or younger.
“Overdose deaths are a public health emergency, and fentanyl is a major driver,” said Dr. Tao Sheng Kwan-Gett, the state’s chief science officer. “What looks like a prescription oxycodone pill could be a counterfeit with more than enough fentanyl to kill.”
The number of overdose deaths are likely to grow as state health officials analyze the data. But with trends continuing at an alarming rate, they’re urging people to carry at least two doses of naloxone, an antidote for opioid overdoses, and to know the signs of overdose.
Naloxone can come as a nasal spray or an injectable, and can be found at pharmacies and many community centers. It is covered by most health-insurance plans and can be purchased by those without insurance.
