From:
Danielle L. Kirby, Director
Division of Substance Use Prevention and Recovery
HEALTH ALERT: INCREASE IN OVERDOSES
Since January 1, 2020, IDPH has observed an increase in opioid related overdoses seen in emergency rooms, which has also been noted by the Illinois Poison Control Center, with most cases between the ages of 45-64.
The majority of increases have been in the greater Chicago metropolitan area, but similar trends have also been observed in other jurisdictions.
Providers are encouraged to counsel people on harm reduction strategies that can help to reduce their risk of overdose when consuming opioids. For additional details, including suggestions regarding harm reduction approaches, please see the attached advisory.
To find your local Drug Overdose Prevention Program, or to become one yourself, please visit: https://www.dhs.state.il.us/page.aspx?item=58142.
