ST. TAMMANY PARISH, La. — The St. Tammany Parish Coroner reported three likely opioid overdoses in the last week, according to a press release.
This comes nearly a week after three suspected opioid overdoses occurred in a 24-hour period.
One overdose happened on Monday in west St. Tammany, and two in the last 24 hours in Lacombe.
“Although toxicology reports will take some time, all three of these deaths are very likely due to opioid overdoses,” Dr. Charles Preston said. “Our office and agencies around the country are finding the toxic opioid Fentanyl in many other street drugs."
Preston said that there have been six likely overdose deaths in the last 11 days. He said these deaths are 100% preventable but the amount now outnumbers both natural and trauma deaths.
“People with addictions and their loved ones would be advised to keep Narcan on-hand, as it can reverse the effects of many overdoses if administered quickly,” Preston said. “Those with addiction problems seeking help should call 988. As always, if it didn’t come from a pharmacy, you shouldn’t put it in your body.”