Health officials continue to be concerned by increases in illegal substances laced with fentanyl, including a new drug that’s already led to multiple overdoses in Eastern Kentucky. Officials are advising people to take advantage of widespread access to Narcan in the event of an overdose. Read more here.
Prevention
UK student uses music to highlight opioid crisis in KY
Josh Rister, a student from the University of Kentucky saw a growing problem impacting his community; the opioid crisis. Rister is using music to help people heal and to shed light on the growing opioid epidemic. Read more here.
Leaders turn to new ideas to address overdose deaths
With overdose deaths on the rise, legislators are developing new strategies to address the national crisis. During a 12-month period, the CDC recorded around 100,000 overdose deaths throughout the United States. Read more here.
KY law enforcement agencies recieve $1.6 million grant
State and local law enforcement received funds from the federal government to combat the opioid epidemic. 11 different drug task force agencies will benefit from the funding in efforts to dismantle drug trafficking circles. Read more here.
New unit in Louisville to support underserved communities
New mobile unit will help underserved areas in Louisville to combat addiction and help people with their recovery efforts. Specialists from the unit aim to educate the community and provide support to those navigating their recovery journey. Read more here.
New strategies aim to train first responder to overdose related calls
The nonprofit Police Assisted Addiction and Recovery Initiative (PAARI) educates police departments, first responders of how to respond to calls related to an overdose crisis.
New study finds links to sex difference in binge drinking
Cornell conducted a study via the use of mice to measure how male and female differences could impact the likelihood of someone developing an alcohol use disorder. Read more here.
Lexington and Richmond to have upcoming drug disposal events
Community partners across Kentucky are hosting drug disposal events to help collect prescriptions and help combat the opioid crisis. Read more here.
This weekend is National Drug Take Back Day
This Saturday, Oct. 23, is Drug Take Back Day. Health officials and community leaders are using the day to educate the public about the misuse of drugs and the impact it has on the community. Read more here.
DEA launches campaign to address the dangers of counterfeit pills
The DEA created “One Pill Can Kill” campaign to warn Americans of the threat of counterfeit pills. Kentucky alone has seen a 50 percent increase in overdoses and overdose related deaths between 2019 and 2020. Read more here.