Health Unit Issues Community Drug Alert Following Recent Reports
PUBLIC SERVICE ANNOUNCEMENT
For immediate release: Tuesday, Sept. 29
Health Unit Issues Community Drug Alert Following Recent Reports
NORTH BAY, ON - Between September 13 and September 26, 2026, 16 overdoses have been reported across the Nipissing and Parry Sound Districts that involved unknown opioids, fentanyl, and crack cocaine combined with unknown substances. Of the 16 overdoses, two resulted in death.
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. The drug alert follows reports from community partners citing unusual reactions such as seizures after using substances including crack cocaine and fentanyl.
The Health Unit advises:
- Check your drug with a testing strip, if available.
- Have naloxone on-hand and ensure your kit is well stocked.
- Use in a safe space with people you trust, and who are able to 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.
- Know your tolerance; start low and go slow.
- Avoid mixing substances.
- 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 at participating Needle Syringe Programs located on 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
