Overdose alert in Lexington – Queer Kentucky

by Lantern staff, Kentucky Lantern
20 September 2024

The Lexington-Fayette County Health Department has issued an overdose alert for Lexington.

The Health Department is reporting an increase in suspected non-fatal drug overdoses, with 24 cases reported in four days (September 17-20), according to information from the Overdose Detection Mapping Application System (ODMAP).

“This is an important time to carry naloxone, which is used to treat opioid overdoses, especially if you or someone you know has a substance use disorder,” department communications officer Kevin Hall said in a news release Friday. “Fentanyl has been found in all types of regulated drugs, so naloxone can help regardless of the drug taken.”

The department's Harm Reduction Program provides naloxone to anyone who needs it. Naloxone kits are available Mondays from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., Wednesdays from 3 to 6:30 p.m. and Thursdays from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. in the Dr. Rice C. Leach Community Room at the Lexington-Fayette County Health Department, 650 Newtown Pike. Individuals who pick up the free naloxone also receive a 10- to 15-minute instruction on how to use it.

The ministry recommends:

Don't use drugs alone. If you or someone you know needs help for a substance use disorder, visit to find out about available treatment options (or call 1-833-859-4357 during business hours or 1-800-854-6813 after hours). Talk to friends, family members, neighbors, and others to pass on this information. Call 911 if you suspect an overdose.

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