Santa Fe Standard

On May 7, 2024, Fentanyl Awareness Day will be observed to shed light on overdose prevention efforts in New Mexico. The New Mexico Department of Health (NMHealth) is urging residents to familiarize themselves with the signs of fentanyl overdose and appropriate responses.

NMHealth Secretary, Patrick Allen, emphasized the importance of preventing overdose deaths, stating, "Every individual has the power to stop an overdose death and help begin the cycle that leads toward that recovery."

Dr. Miranda Durham, NMHealth’s Chief Medical Officer, highlighted the urgency of the situation, mentioning, "Forty-two percent of Americans know someone who has died of an overdose."

Fentanyl, a potent synthetic opioid, is a major contributor to fatal opioid overdoses in New Mexico. In 2022, 87 percent of the 711 fatal opioid overdoses in the state involved illicitly manufactured fentanyl.

NMHealth is encouraging residents to be proactive and seek help when needed. Hotlines such as Never Use Alone (1-877-696-1996) and 988 are available for intervention and support. Additionally, individuals can reach out to NMHealth’s helpline at 1-833-SWNURSE for assistance in finding resources or care providers.

Recognizing the importance of naloxone in preventing fatal opioid overdoses, NMHealth's Hepatitis and Harm Reduction Program provides the medication at no cost through a mail-order system. Naloxone can also be obtained for free at local Public Health Offices or purchased at pharmacies.

Fentanyl test strips are also available to help individuals determine if a substance contains fentanyl. These strips can be acquired at no cost from community harm reduction providers and Public Health Offices.

For more information on ordering naloxone and learning about rescue breathing techniques, residents can visit the NMHealth Harm Reduction website. To understand more about Fentanyl Awareness Day, the National Fentanyl Awareness Day website offers valuable insights.

Inquiries regarding this press release can be directed to David Barre at (505) 699-9237 (Office).

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