According to a recent report from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, drug overdose deaths are decreasing across the country for the first time since 2018. However, Alabama is not experiencing the same trend. In fact, the state is seeing an increase in the number of drug overdose deaths.
HEMSI first responders in Madison County report an improvement in numbers during the first six months of the year despite the ongoing national opioid crisis.
Between December 31, 2023 and June 2024, there was a decrease in the number of drug overdose calls.
According to Don Webster from HEMSI, they were previously observing 2.3 to 2.4 overdoses per 24 hours. However, at present, they are witnessing approximately two overdoses.
According to Webster, the increase in people seeking help for addiction in Madison County is a positive development. While it may not be a drastic change, he believes it is a step in the right direction. This could be due to the numerous resources available in the area, including Bradford Health Services, WellStone, and R.O.S.S. Madison County.
Every day, opioid-related overdoses claim the lives of more than 130 people across the United States, as reported by the Health Resources and Services Administration.
According to Webster, the number of deaths related to drug overdoses in Madison County is still at an average of three every seven to ten days.
In the past six months, HEMSI has administered Narcan, a treatment for narcotic overdose, around 380 times to combat the issue.
Webster is aware that these drugs are still causing devastating effects in our community, based on the figures presented.
According to Webster, addiction is a severe illness and a crisis that he has dealt with for a long time. He believes that opioids and fentanyl still have a significant impact on the community.
If drug addiction is a struggle for you or someone you know, remember that help is available. Simply dial the Alabama Addiction Hotline at 866-210-1303 to access support and guidance.
