Digging Deeper into Canada’s Opioid Crisis: Record Opioid Deaths in New Brunswick

Canada is facing an escalating opioid crisis and it’s alarming how deaths linked to these narcotics continue to rise. It’s not just a problem in major cities; the crisis is making its impact felt in small provinces too. In New Brunswick alone, the count of opioid-related deaths hit a record high in 2019.

An article from CBC News unravels the increasing numbers of overdose deaths in New Brunswick and how communities are battling the issue.

Overview of the Rising Opioid Crisis in New Brunswick

The Office of the Chief Coroner in New Brunswick revealed a significant increase in overdose deaths in 2018 and 2019. Most of these involved opioids, a class of drugs that includes heroin, synthetic opioids like fentanyl, and prescription pain relievers.

Immediate Consequences of Opioid Overdose Deaths

The article vividly presents the severe effects rippling through society as a result of the opioid crisis :

• Increased Crime: Drug-related crimes and violence are on the rise. This crisis has been linked to an increase in local crime rates.
• Social Issues: The crisis impacts families and communities profoundly with growing numbers of homeless people driven by addiction.
• Financial Strain: Treatment services, legal proceedings and law enforcement resources stretched thin by the crisis are putting strain on public finance.

Current Efforts to Combat the Opioid Crisis

The consequences necessitate immediate action, indeed actions are underway. Notably, the province’s health department ramped up their harm reduction strategies.

Naloxone: A Lifesaver in The Opioid Crisis

One major initiative highlighted in the article is the distribution of Naloxone Kits. Naloxone is a medication designed to rapidly reverse opioid overdose and has become a critical tool.

The Opioid Class Action

New Brunswick joined a national class action lawsuit against the manufacturers of OxyContin, hoping to recoup some of the money spent on addressing the opioid crisis.

Key Points From the Article

• Opioid-related deaths in New Brunswick have reached a record high in 2018 and 2019.
• The opioid crisis is associated with escalating rates of local crime, increasing homelessness, and financial strain on public resources.
• In response, Naloxone kits are being distributed and are proving crucial in the immediate reversal of opioid overdoses.
• New Brunswick has joined a national opioid class action against the manufacturers of OxyContin.

Closing Thoughts

It’s harrowing to witness the deepening opioid crisis in Canada. As the ongoing pandemic has put additional strain on efforts to address the issue, the battle is far from over. However, with the crucial distribution of Naloxone kits, ongoing legal action, and local communities rallying together to fight back, there is hope on the horizon.