Merritt shows support for International Overdose Awareness Day

MERRITT – Today (August 31) is International Overdose Awareness Day and the City of Merritt is showing it’s support.

“International Overdose Awareness Day is held each year on August 31 to raise awareness and reduce the stigma associated with substance use and drug-related death,” said Interior Health. “It is an important day to recognize the loss and grief felt by so many people around the world and here at home.”

According to the latest report from the BC Coroner’s Service within Interior Health, during the first five months of 2022 alone, there were 149 drug toxicity deaths and officials believe the rising numbers correspond to an increasingly poisonous street drug supply.

Since the overdose public health emergency was announced in 2016, there have been more than 10,000 deaths due to illicit drugs throughout the province.

“Prescribed safe supply has been introduced in Kelowna, Vernon, Kamloops, and Penticton, and we’re working closely with partners to expand to other communities as quickly as possible. Drug testing is available at 72 locations across our region, and continues to grow. Life-saving overdose prevention and supervised consumption services continue to play an important role in not only keeping people alive, but connecting them to support and treatment.”

The City of Merritt announced they were lowering the flag to half-mast today to support the cause and raise awareness.