22-004
Chief Medical Officer Urges Awareness & Training as Opioid Epidemic Escalates
April 14, 2022 (Anchorage) – Today, Anchorage Chief Medical Officer Dr. Michael Savitt highlighted steps the public can take to combat the ongoing opioid epidemic in Anchorage. Driven by the increasing inclusion of the powerful opioid fentanyl in illicit drugs and counterfeit pills, the incidence of preventable opioid deaths has sharply increased.
“As we continue to manage COVID-19, it's critical that we not lose sight of other major public health threats. Too many Alaskans and their families suffer every day from the impacts of this crippling addiction," said Anchorage Chief Medical Officer Dr. Michael Savitt. “Last year, 245 Alaskans succumbed to opioid overdoses – an increase of nearly 70%. Nationwide, we've seen an increase in adolescent overdose deaths of over 110% since the beginning of 2020. With better access to treatment and widespread Narcan availability, we can prevent these tragic deaths and put more residents on the road to recovery."
Narcan kits are available at locations across Anchorage, including the Anchorage Health Department (AHD) clinic at 825 L Street, Project HOPE locations, and many local healthcare facilities. Delivered via a nasal spray, these kits are easy to administer, requiring only 15 minutes of online training. AHD encourages all citizens to carry one of these lifesaving kits.
Signs of an opioid overdose include, but are not limited to:
- Unconsciousness or inability to awaken.
- Slow or shallow breathing including sounds of choking, snoring, or gurgling from an individual who cannot be awakened.
- Blue fingernails or lips.
An opioid overdose requires immediate medical attention regardless of the successful administration of Narcan.For those seeking non-emergency treatment for themselves, a loved one, or a patient, AHD's Substance Misuse Resource Guide provides a listing of local organizations who can help. Alaskans should call 2-1-1 or AHD's clinic at (907) 343-4799 to be connected with available substance misuse treatment providers. Online resources such as findtreatment.gov may also be useful.
AHD recognizes that not all individuals suffering from opioid addiction may be ready or willing to seek help. While we urge individuals to stop taking non-prescribed or illicit drugs, those who chose to take this potentially life-ending risk should never take these drugs alone. Be aware that any non-prescribed pill, along with street drugs like methamphetamine, heroin, cocaine, and others, may contain lethal amounts of fentanyl. Fentanyl test strips are provided in most Narcan kits and individuals engaged in this behavior should research how to effectively use these tests.
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Media contact: Tyler Sachtleben, AHD PIO, tyler.sachtleben@anchorageak.gov, 907-343-4670