7 Overdose Deaths In 2 Days In Cuyahoga County

Over a two-day span this week, there were seven overdose deaths. Alarmed by the spike in deaths, Cuyahoga County Medical Examiner Dr. Thomas Gilson issued a public health alert on Thursday.

It is not yet clear which narcotics may be behind the spike in overdose deaths, but Gilson suspect fentanyl is involved. Fentanyl has been the major contributing factor to Ohio's ongoing opioid crisis.

“The recent spike in overdose deaths, which has also been noted across Ohio, is concerning and still likely a result of fentanyl. Fentanyl is continuing to impact our communities, both in the City of Cleveland and suburbs,” said Gilson. “If you or someone you know is suffering from an addiction, help is available through the ADAMHS Board of Cuyahoga County and programs such as Project DAWN. While we do not advocate using illegal drugs, someone addicted should avoid using drugs alone. Having someone in the vicinity to use naloxone and call 911 may save your life.”

A spokesperson for Gilson's office told Patch they are not yet releasing where the overdoses took place, but did say there had been deaths in Cleveland and surrounding suburbs.

Project DAWN offers eligible participants free Naloxone kits, an opioid reversing antidote. If you know someone that is struggling with addiction, or recovering from opioid addiction, you should contact Project DAWN at 216-778-5677.

The ADAMHS Board of Cuyahoga County offers a 24-hour crisis hotline that can be accessed at 216-623-6888.