By Kaitlyn Midgely
LCOE Communication Specialist
In the past week, a student in Lassen County was found with fentanyl in their system, underscoring the urgent need for awareness and education about this dangerous drug. Fentanyl does not discriminate; it has impacted individuals of all backgrounds, races, and genders.
From January 21st to 24th, the Lassen County Office of Education provided training to over 1,500 students, educating them on the dangers of fentanyl.
As a synthetic opioid up to 50 times stronger than heroin and 100 times stronger than morphine, even a microscopic amount of fentanyl can be lethal. These dangerous pills are being disguised to look like real medications, leading individuals to unknowingly consume them.
Criminal drug networks are producing fake prescription pills that resemble commonly used medications such as Oxycodone (OxyContin), Hydrocodone (Vicodin), Alprazolam (Xanax), and stimulants like amphetamines (Adderall).
Fentanyl is being found in virtually every drug on the streets today. Even if someone believes they are taking a legitimate prescription pill, there is a high risk it contains fentanyl, which can be fatal.
Parents are urged to have real, honest conversations with their children about the dangers of fentanyl and the risks associated with taking any pill or substance not directly prescribed by a doctor.
Fentanyl use can result in slowed breathing, reduced blood pressure, nausea, fainting, seizures, coma, respiratory failure, and death. However, if someone is experiencing an opioid overdose, naloxone (Narcan) can save their life. Naloxone works by quickly reversing the effects of opioid overdose and restoring normal breathing.
Recognizing an Opioid Overdose:
- The person does not respond to voice or touch.
- Breathing is very slow, irregular, or has stopped completely.
- Fingernails and lips are turning blue or purple.
- The person has very small pupils, known as “pinpoint pupils.”
Steps to Take During an Overdose:
- Call 911 and report a suspected overdose.
- If available, administer naloxone (Narcan).
- Keep the person awake and breathing.
- Lay the person on their side to prevent choking.
- Stay with the person until emergency responders arrive.
Lassen County Public Health offers free Narcan to the public. To obtain Narcan for your home, contact Lassen County Public Health at (530) 251-8183. For additional resources on fentanyl awareness and prevention for students and parents, please visit LCOE’s website at lcoe.org.