HoCo Sees 43 Percent Jump In Opioid-Related Deaths In 2020

HOWARD COUNTY, MD — Officials say the coronavirus pandemic "exacerbated" opioid and substance abuse in 2020, with data showing a 43 percent increase in opioid-related deaths in 2020 from 2019. According to Howard County, there was a 2.6 percent decrease in non-fatal overdoses compared to the previous year.

“The opioid crisis still grips our community and the pandemic has made the situation worse,” said Dr. Maura Rossman, Howard County Health Officer, in a statement. “We are deeply saddened by the lives lost to overdose in the last year. Our goal is to help prevent overdose and save lives by providing resources and services to those who are still in active use or to those ready to make a change.”

The COVID-19 pandemic has "clearly highlighted the disparities in our healthcare system," including the need for greater resources to continue combatting substance use disorders, said Howard County Executive Calvin Ball said in a statement.

“The increase in fatal overdoses is a trend that we’re seeing across the country this year, and it’s vital that in 2021 we pursue more solutions to ensure that those facing substance misuse are able to receive the care they need, even amid a pandemic," he said.

Last month, the Howard County Health Department introduced a new recreational vehicle to expand its Harm Reduction and Syringe Services programming. The services that will be available through the Harm Reductions Services Program include:

• HIV/Hepatitis & STI testing and support services
• Narcan/overdose response training and kits
• Safe sex supplies
• Peer support staff access
• Wound care
• Harm Reduction kits/safer use supplies
• Referrals to medical services/social service agencies