4 Suspected Opioid Overdoses Reported Within Days In Alexandria

ALEXANDRIA, VA—The city says it's responded to four suspected opioid overdoses within three days in Alexandria. Two of the overdoses were fatal.

According to The Washington Post, the overdoses happened in different areas; one of the non-fatal overdoses happened in a grocery store bathroom. The victims' names have not been released.

The city warns that opioids like heroin can be extremely concentrated or mixed with a substance that can cause a life-threatening reaction. Another type of opioid, fentanyl, has become an increasing problem in Virginia across the country. This type of opioid is more potent than heroin and can be deadly if one inhales or touches just a small amount.

In 2017, the city had nine fatal overdoses and 50 non-fatal overdoses. According to data obtained by The Post, there were eight fatal overdoses and 49 non-fatal overdoses in 2018.

Since 2013, drug overdoses have been the leading cause of unnatural death in Virginia, according to the latest department of health report. In 2017, the state reported 1,534 fatal drug overdoses, most of which were from opioids. Drug overdose deaths outnumbered the 1,028 gun-related deaths and 956 motor vehicle-related deaths. The final data for 2018 has not been released. In particular, the number of fatal heroin and fentanyl overdoses has drastically increased in the past few years.

Last year, 12 people were sentenced for two heroin trafficking operations in Alexandria. Prosecutors said one of the groups distributed heroin mixed with fentanyl and furanyl fentanyl.

The city has an opioid work group to address the crisis through various departments and partners. Efforts have ranged from expanding distribution of the life-saving Narcan and community trainings on responding to opioid overdoses to expanding the opioid treatment program.

Residents should always immediately call 911 in the case of an overdose. In non-emergency situations, these resources are available to get help with drug addiction:

• Alexandria Residential Treatment Center: Call 703-746-3636 any hour of the day.
• Opioid Treatment Program: Call 703-746-3610.
• Virginia Relay 711 Addiction Hotline: Call 703-746-3636 any hour of the day.

Narcan, which treats a life-threatening overdose, is available without a prescription at all pharmacies. Residents can also obtain it for free at the Alexandria Health Department's main office (4480 King St.), from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. on Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Fridays; and from 12:45 to 4:30 p.m. on Thursdays. The Good Samaritan Law protects those providing aid from liability.

Overdose symptoms can include:

• Pale face
• Limp body
• Blue-ish lips or nails
• Vomiting or gurgling
• Drowsiness or unconsciousness
• Slow breathing or heartbeat
• Muscle spasms

For more information on the opioid crisis and resources, visit www.alexandriava.gov/Opioids.

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