Within the Pandemic – The Opioid Epidemic Continues

The Opioid Epidemic was here before the Caronavirus Pandemic and looks to continue as the pandemic seems to be tailing off a bit.

"In 2017, 68% of the 70,237 U.S. drug overdose deaths involved an opioid. During 2016–2017, deaths involving all opioids and synthetic opioids increased; deaths involving prescription opioids and heroin remained stable....Opioids were involved in approximately 70% (46,802) of drug overdose deaths during 2018."

Prescription pain medications are now the leading cause of accidental death in Washington State, with seventy five percent of opioid misuse starting with people using medication that wasn't prescribed for them.

That high percentage occurs as misguided giving and outright theft takes place between the user and a friend or family member.

For the safety of all, this important message is clear.  Take the simple step of locking up all medications to stop them from being stolen or taken and sold to others.

For more information visit www.getthefactsrx.com where you will find info on a variety of important topics like medicine take-back locations.

" Drop-boxes are located throughout Washington at particpating retail pharmacies, hospital and clinic pharmacies and law enforcement offices. Most prescription and over-the-counter medicines are accepted unless specified."

This information is made available to you by the department of social and health services and Sunnyside United-Unidos.