Health Unit Issues Community Drug Alert Following Sharp Increase in Overdose Rates

PUBLIC SERVICE ANNOUNCEMENT

NORTH BAY, ON – Between July 23 and August 2, 2025, nine overdoses have been reported across the Nipissing and Parry Sound Districts that involved substances expected to be opioids. Of the nine overdoses, one resulted in death. One is known to have had a single dose of naloxone given at the scene.

The North Bay Parry Sound District Health Unit (Health Unit) has issued a community drug alert in response to these events, and is advising people who use substances to take extra precautions following the confirmation of more toxic substances circulating in the unregulated drug supply across the Simcoe and Muskoka districts, which are known to cause extreme sedation and pose a risk of stopping breathing.

The Health Unit advises:

• Check your drug with a testing strip, if available. A recent news release from the North Bay Police Service warns of the potential for carfentanil and fluorofentanyl in the unregulated drug supply, which are far more potent than fentanyl.
• Use in a safe space with people you trust, and who will respond with naloxone if needed.
• If using alone, call or text the National Overdose Response Line at 1-888-688-6677 or have a friend check-in on you.
• Have naloxone on-hand and ensure your kit is well stocked.
• If your high feels unusual or if you are with someone who is experiencing an overdose, call 911.

People who use substances can access drug testing kits for fentanyl, xylazine, and benzodiazepines, as well as naloxone kits at the Health Unit or participating Needle Syringe Programs, which can be located using the Find Supplies map. Community members can access naloxone kits at participating pharmacies.

For more information, visit myhealthunit.ca/naloxone.

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Media Inquiries:

Kylie Wurdell, Public Relations Specialist
P: 705-474-1400, ext. 5221 or 1-800-563-2808
E: communications@healthunit.ca