In the last day and a half, 14 fentanyl-related overdoses occurred in Onondaga County, according to County Executive Ryan McMahon.
McMahon said he was concerned more could occur.
"The the crap being sold on the streets is loaded with fentanyl," he said at a Thursday afternoon news conference about an upcoming winter storm.
Fentanyl is an extremely potent and lethal opioid. As of late, it has been found in other illicit substances, leaving those who use drugs at high risk of accidentally overdosing on fentanyl.
The U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration said it has seen a notable increase in fake prescription drugs containing lethal doses of fentanyl. This year alone, the DEA seized enough laced pills and raw fentanyl to kill every American.
McMahon said that it's important for people to know what an overdose may look like in the event they find themselves in a position to help.
“Please recognize the signs of what an overdose may look like, especially if you have loved ones who have experienced addiction. This is a lot of pressure on them. Pale, sweaty, clammy skin, lips or fingertips could turn blue, slow or irregular breathing, gasping, difficult or unable to wake. Please always call 911 in this situation, but if you have Narcan, please administer it," McMahon said.
Narcan, also known as Naloxone, is a nasal spray that reverses an opioid overdose when administered. Importantly, it is harmless if administered to someone who is not experiencing an opioid overdose.
Narcan, fentanyl testing strips, as well substance use treatment and resources, are available from the Onondaga County Health Department by calling 315-418-5365