The Injury and Violence Prevention Branch of the Division of Public Health (IVPB) recently posted an update of suspected overdose deaths, fentanyl-positive deaths, and provisional data on Emergency Department (ED) visits for overdose reports.

While the year-to-date data show decreases in fatal and non-fatal overdoses statewide, it is important to remember that the overall numbers are still higher than the numbers experienced in 2019, before the start of the COVID-19 pandemic. Additionally, decreases in ED visits for overdose may only indicate decreased utilization of the ED, not necessarily decreases in overdose events.

Access to evidence-based substance use care services and resources are vital to improve health and wellness of the community.

Suspected Overdose Deaths

There were 224 suspected overdose deaths in September 2024 compared to 353 in September 2023.

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Fentanyl-Positive Deaths

There were 169 fentanyl-positive deaths in July 2024 compared to 262 in July 2023. Please note that due to the time needed to finalize toxicology results, this report is three months behind the other reports shared in this update.

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Overdose Involving Medication or Drugs with Dependency Potential

There were 971 overdose ED visits in September 2024 involving medication or drugs with dependency potential compared to 1,432 in September 2023.

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