Local communities around the world are coming together on August 31st to remember those who have died or suffered permanent injury due to drug overdose.
Observed on the 31st of August every year, International Overdose Awareness Day (IOAD) seeks to create better understanding of overdose, reduce the stigma of drug-related deaths, and create change that reduces the harms associated with drug use.
In an effort to prevent deaths due to opioid overdose, the Nevada County Public Health Department distributes free naloxone at its HIV/HCV Testing Clinic, which is held on every 2nd and 4th Tuesday, noon-3:00 p.m., at the Public Health office located at 500 Crown Point Circle in Grass Valley.
Naloxone is a medication that works almost immediately to reverse an opiate overdose. It has few known adverse effects, no potential for abuse, and can be rapidly administered via nasal spray. The U.S. Surgeon General declared the importance of naloxone, and that for those who use opioids, as well as family and friends of those who use opioids, knowing how to use naloxone and keeping it within reach can save a life.
For more information about Public Health’s naloxone distribution program, call 530-265-1228. For more information on IOAD, visit https://www.overdoseday.com/.
