Providence Overdose Spike Alert

PROVIDENCE, RI — Twenty Providence residents received emergency medical care for a drug overdose in a weeklong period ending Monday, according to the Rhode Island Department of Health.

"Providence continues to have the highest overdose rate in Rhode Island," the department of health said in a media release.

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"This rate is up to two times higher than the statewide average," according to the release.

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The department of health attributed the increase in overdoses to changes in the drug supply.

"Fentanyl and other very strong substances are in all types of drugs, including heroin, cocaine, and counterfeit pills," the department said.

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The department of health issued an overdose spike alert for Providence due to the high number of overdoses.

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"When RIDOH's (emergency department) data show an increase in drug overdoses, the community is alerted so people can connect with local overdose prevention, treatment, and recovery resources," according to the department.

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