Michigan State Police to Distribute Life-Saving Naloxone as Opioid Crisis Persists
PAW PAW, Mich. – In recognition of international Overdose Awareness Day on august 31st and the upcoming National Recovery Month in September, the Michigan State Police (MSP) Paw Paw Post will be distributing naloxone, a critical medication used to reverse opioid overdoses, on September 2nd.
The initiative comes as Michigan continues to grapple with a risky rise in potent opioids. From January to June of this year, the MSP reported 11 deaths involving carfentanil, a highly potent variant of fentanyl increasingly found in the illicit drug supply. Importantly, investigations revealed that carfentanil was not present as the sole substance in any of these fatalities. Ten of the deaths involved cocaine, and eight involved fentanyl alongside carfentanil.
These tragic incidents were concentrated in several counties – ingham, Livingston, Eaton, Genesee, Oakland, and Wayne - but authorities are urging vigilance throughout Southwest michigan as the region faces ongoing challenges with opioid overdoses.
“Law enforcement recognizes we cannot combat this crisis in isolation,” stated F/Lt. Scott Ernstes, commander of the MSP Paw Paw Post. “Distributing Naloxone, with the support of our community, is a vital step in providing a life-saving resource to those who need it.”
The MSP is also emphasizing preventative measures for the public:
Carry Naloxone: The medication is readily available without a prescription and can be crucial in reversing an overdose.
Avoid Using Alone: Having someone present who is trained to respond to an overdose considerably reduces the risk of fatality.
* Seek Support: Confidential support and treatment referrals are available through the Michigan opioid Helpline at 1-800-662-HELP (4357).
Naloxone will be available for distribution during regular business hours at the Paw Paw Post, located at 43255 60th Ave.