10/31/2024 | News release | Distributed by Public on 10/31/2024 08:14
News Release
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
10/31/2024
Contact: Lindley Sharp- (319) 352-0082
[email protected]
Bremer County Health Department Providing Free Naloxone Nasal Spray Kits
The Bremer County Health Department is distributing free opioid overdose Naloxone (i.e. Kloxxado® and Narcan®) Nasal Spray kits. The free naloxone nasal spray kits are available to individuals who use drugs, those with a history of drug use, others at risk of overdose, as well as friends, family members, and others who may witness an overdose. Each kit contains two naloxone nasal sprays, which can be administered by a bystander witnessing an overdose until emergency medical help can arrive.
"Making naloxone available through the County Health Department is another way to increase access to a critical tool in combating opioid-related deaths," said Lindley Sharp, Administrator of the Bremer County Health Department. Naloxone is designed to reverse the effects of an opioid overdose, restoring breathing and consciousness within minutes. While naloxone can be administered by a bystander before emergency medical help arrives, but it is not a replacement for professional medical care. In the event of a suspected opioid overdose, individuals should call 911 before administering naloxone.
The free naloxone kits can be picked up during regular business hours, Monday through Friday, from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at the following location:
Bremer County Health Department
403 3rd Street SE
Waverly, Iowa 50677
The kits are free, and no appointment is necessary. However, individuals are encouraged to call (319) 352-0082 before visiting to ensure staff availability. Those receiving the free naloxone kits will also get educational materials, information on referrals, and connections for substance abuse intervention. By providing naloxone through the Bremer County Health Department, support for individuals with opioid use disorders will be enhanced, and overdose deaths in Iowa can be prevented.
This initiative is part of and paid through an Iowa Health and Human Services community-based naloxone distribution initiative that provides free opioid overdose naloxone nasal spray to ensure communities are prepared for timely response to overdose events. The two medications (based on availability) through this initiative are Kloxxado® and Narcan®.
For more information, visit the Bremer County Health Department on Facebook or at www.bremercounty.iowa.gov.
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