Health unit warns of spike in opioid overdoses in Nipissing and Parry Sound

Health officials in the Nipissing-Parry Sound district have issued a warning about toxic drugs circulating in the region.

The North Bay Parry Sound District Health Unit is urging residents suffering from addictions to exercise caution following a concerning rise in opioid-related overdoses in the region.

Between Feb. 23 and March 8, 2025, 10 overdoses were reported in the Districts of Nipissing and Parry Sound, three of which were fatal. Six of the cases involved fentanyl and naloxone was administered in all six instances to reverse the effects of the overdose.

Naloxone is a life-saving medication that can temporarily reverse an opioid overdose, providing critical time for emergency medical services to arrive. Free kits and training on how to use them are available across the region.

In response to the spike, the health unit is reminding the public of harm reduction strategies for those who use opioids:

• Start with a smaller amount.
• Call 911 if your high feels unusual.
• Don’t use drugs alone. Use with someone you trust.
• Pick up free naloxone and drug testing kits at the health unit or local pharmacies.

The health unit is working closely with community partners to monitor the situation and provide support to those affected. Residents are encouraged to stay informed by monitoring the health unit’s Community Well-being Dashboards and its social media pages.

For more information on naloxone, including where to access kits, visit myhealthunit.ca/naloxone.