National Fentanyl Awareness Day — Education Can Save Lives

Fentanyl awareness day

May 7th marks the third annual National Fentanyl Awareness Day — established by families who tragically lost loved ones to fentanyl overdoses. It serves as a crucial reminder of the dangers of this powerful synthetic opioid and its devastating impact on communities across the United States.

Fentanyl is up to 50 times stronger than heroin and 100 times stronger than morphine. It’s increasingly being laced into other drugs without the user’s knowledge, making overdoses a terrifying possibility.

National Fentanyl Awareness Day is about education. By raising awareness about the dangers of fentanyl, we can empower ourselves and others to make informed decisions and take steps to stay safe. Here are some ways you can participate:

  • Share information: Spread the word about fentanyl on social media using hashtags like #NationalFentanylAwarenessDay.
  • Educate yourself: Learn about the signs and symptoms of a fentanyl overdose.
  • Support resources: Advocate for increased access to harm reduction resources like naloxone, a medication that can reverse opioid overdoses.

By raising awareness and promoting education, we can help save lives. Visit the National Fentanyl Awareness Day website (https://www.fentanylawarenessday.org/) to learn more and get involved.

What is the CT Syringe Services Program?

Syringe Services Programs (SSPs) are community-based programs that provide access to sterile needles and syringes, facilitate safe disposal of used syringes, and provide and link to other important services and programs such as: Referral to substance use disorder treatment programs; Screening, care, and treatment for viral hepatitis and HIV; Education about overdose prevention and safer injection practices; Vaccinations, including those for hepatitis A and hepatitis B; Screening for sexually transmitted diseases; Abscess and wound care; Naloxone distribution and education; Referral to social, mental health, and other medical services (CDC SSPs). 

To access the Uncas Health District SSP for you or someone in need, contact Susan Dubb, Public Health Nurse at (860) 823-1189 x123 or sdubb@uncashd.org.  There is no cost for this service and our staff will be happy to schedule a confidential appointment. 

Infographic: What Are Syringe Services Programs

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