[Archived] City of Alexandria Warns of Danger Posed by Concentrated Opioids in Light of Recent Spike in Overdoses

For Immediate Release: January 21, 2019

The City of Alexandria has responded to four suspected opioid overdoses in the last 72 hours, including two fatalities. While recreational use of opioids is always dangerous and illegal, City officials are urging residents to be aware of the medical safety of the drugs, including heroin, that could be extremely concentrated or mixed with something unusual that is resulting in life-threatening situations.

Naloxone (Narcan) can save the life of someone who is overdosing, if given in time. It is available without a prescription at all pharmacies. You can also obtain it for free at the Alexandria Health Department's main office (4480 King St.), from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. on Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Fridays; and from 12:45 to 4:30 p.m. on Thursdays.  Appointments are not necessary, but may be made by calling 703.746.4888. Anyone who assists a person in need is protected by the Good Samaritan Law from liability while rendering aid.

If you or someone you care about needs help with addiction, call 703.746.3636 (Virginia Relay 711), 24 hours a day. For help to stop using heroin or other opioids, call the Opioid Treatment Program intake line at 703.746.3610. Individuals who do not live in Alexandria can find treatment options at www.samhsa.gov or by calling 800.662.HELP (4357).

If you have information regarding past overdoses, call the Alexandria Police Department at 703.746.6277.

For life-threatening situations, call 911 immediately.

For more information on the opioid crisis and how the City is responding, including a printable flyer on overdose symptoms and how to get help, visit  alexandriava.gov/Opioids.

For media inquiries, contact Craig Fifer, Director of Communications and Public Information, at craig.fifer@alexandriava.gov or 703.746.3965.