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Columbia County, New York, has released its latest data on drug overdoses, revealing a total of 349 incidents this year as of November 18. Tragically, 37 of these overdoses were fatal. The average age of individuals who overdosed is 38, with 213 of the cases involving males.
The Columbia County Department of Health uses an Opioid Overdose Dashboard to track both fatal and non-fatal overdoses. This tool helps the community understand the threat posed by opioids and mobilize resources in response to overdose spikes. The data, sourced from OD Maps, is updated bi-weekly and includes information on age, gender, and suspected drugs involved in the overdoses.
In response to the ongoing crisis, local officials emphasize the importance of community awareness and access to life-saving measures. Hannah Calhoun, executive director of the Columbia-Greene Addiction Coalition, stressed the need for vigilance and the availability of naloxone, a medication that can reverse overdoses. In Hudson, a vending machine on Union Street dispenses naloxone and other prevention supplies, such as fentanyl test strips, without a prescription according to local reports.
Efforts to combat the overdose epidemic include harm reduction initiatives like the installation of vending machines providing free access to life-saving supplies. These machines are part of a collaboration between Catholic Charities, MATTERS, and the Mental Health Association for Columbia/Greene, aimed at improving access to resources for individuals with Substance Use Disorder.
Anyone struggling with addiction can reach out for help 24/7 through the New York State HOPEline. Additionally, the Hudson police encourage individuals to seek assistance via Columbia County’s Pathways to Recovery line at 877-467-3365.