It’s safe to give help: Questions and answers about secondhand fentanyl exposure

April 5, 2022.Reading time 9 minutes.

As the powerful synthetic opioid fentanyl has spread across King County and the rest of the nation, it has become unfortunately common to encounter a person who may be experiencing an opioid overdose. Some people may have questions about what to do in that situation – how to give help, and whether it’s safe to […]

The value of medications for opioid use disorder

March 4, 2022.Reading time 7 minutes.

Written by Troy Seibert, Public Health – Seattle & King County, Overdose Prevention and Response As we confront an alarming rise in overdose deaths, King County is working to expand access to a proven, life-saving intervention. Medications for Opioid Use Disorder (MOUD), specifically buprenorphine, lowers risk of death by about 50%. These medications, along with, […]

Talking with teens about fentanyl

December 2, 2021.Reading time 12 minutes.

With the first months of school now behind us and young people more used to re-engaging with their peers, it’s a good time to have an open and honest conversation with our kids about fentanyl.

How you can help prevent an overdose death: Tips for Overdose Awareness Day

August 31, 2021.Reading time 4 minutes.

As part of International Overdose Awareness Day, it’s a good time learn about the risk of overdose and evidence-based practices and resources that mitigate harm and help to reduce stigma associated with overdose and substance use.

Thirty-four King County residents died from fentanyl Drug overdose in July: How our community can take action

August 17, 2021.Reading time 10 minutes.

Dark purple background with large gray ribbon. Graphic symbolizes overdose awareness.

Fentanyl has hit our community and is taking the lives of so many loved ones. We have already exceeded last year’s numbers for fentanyl deaths. Overdose is preventable and there are actions we can all take.

Alert: Three fentanyl overdoses deaths in one day

February 7, 2020.Reading time 2 minutes.

Public Health – Seattle & King County is alerting people to avoid pills from the street or online. The warning comes after three fatal overdoses were reported near the border of Kent and Renton on the morning of February 6, 2020. These three deaths were close together geographically and within a short time period, causing particular concern.