5 Overdose Deaths Spur Warning In Marin County

MARIN COUNTY, CA — Public health leaders in Marin County are issuing renewed warnings over fentanyl in the wake of a cluster of overdose deaths in recent weeks.

Marin Health & Human Services issued a public health advisory Friday after five deaths linked to fentanyl with methamphetamine since Feb. 14. Officials said the deaths parallel an increase in both substances seen in wastewater tests and a higher volume of 911 calls for non-fatal overdoses.

According to the county, the three data points could indicate residents using illicit substances may be at an even higher than usual risk for overdose deaths.

"Overdose is the leading cause of death in Marin County for residents aged 55 and younger," the health advisory reads in part. "Fentanyl, a high potency synthetic opioid, is the most common substance involved in local overdose deaths. Spikes in fentanyl-related deaths may be due to increased concentration and intentional use of fentanyl or increased contamination of fentanyl in other substances."

Marin County Public Health shared a few resources to help prevent further overdose deaths:

• Carry Narcan. You may need to use multiple doses.
• Test your drugs before using. Fentanyl test strips are available through the Ritter Center.
• Start low and go slow.
• Do not use drugs alone. If no one will be close by while you are using, call Never Use Alone at 1-800-484-3731.
• • For treatment options, call the Behavioral Health & Recovery Services Access Line (24/7) at 1-888-818-1115.

Health officials said they were closely monitoring the situation and would continue to provide updates. Organizations in need of Narcan, fentanyl test strips and other supplies can contact OD Free Marin.