Hastings Prince Edward Public Health says Belleville police have been dealing with more overdose calls during the last week and have responded to two deaths caused by overdose since March 16.
The local public health unit said it’s possible the uptick in overdoses could be caused by anxiety induced by the novel coronavirus pandemic, which “may lead to an increase in substance use for vulnerable individuals.” Hastings Prince Edward Public Health is asking those who use drugs to engage in “harm reduction” efforts to avoid overdosing. “This includes having a naloxone kit, avoiding mixing drugs or using drugs with alcohol, using a small test dose first and, most importantly, not using alone,” the public health unit said.