New York state and local health officials have expressed concern over a spike in opioid-related overdoses in parts of central New York and warned that deaths could spread to other parts of the state. I’m here.

The rising death toll is believed to be linked to fentanyl, a powerful opioid. Fentanyl is often added to drugs such as heroin, cocaine, crystal methamphetamine, and illegally manufactured tablets.

In Oneida County, authorities noted five overdose deaths in August. Three of these deaths occurred in his five days.

The deaths come amid a sharp and record increase in overdose deaths in 2020. This impact is consistent with his COVID pandemic, which researchers and public health officials have said.

“Illegal and deceptive drugs made with fentanyl are killing people at an unprecedented rate,” said Oneida County Administrator Anthony Picente. I will.” “Fentanyl has changed the game in a terrifying way. It is a highly toxic and dangerous drug that can take lives in an instant. Three known deaths in just five days is a major cause of death. It’s proof of that, and it only takes an hour.”

Nearly half of overdose deaths statewide are now linked to fentanyl, according to the state Department of Health. State health officials this summer required pharmacies to carry and dispense naloxone.

This order came into effect on August 15th.

“Overdose cases are on the rise in central New York, but we can make an overdose less likely to be fatal,” said Mary T. Bassett, Ph.D., of the Board of Health. “Fentanyl makes all street drugs more dangerous, and non-opioid drugs like methamphetamine can also be deadly. We recommend that you call us.”