Whatcom County Health and Community Services (WCHCS) is proud to announce the launch of a new program aimed at combating the opioid crisis by increasing access to lifesaving naloxone, also known as Narcan, in our community. This initiative includes installing Naloxone dispenser boxes at select locations throughout Whatcom County.
The first naloxone dispenser box is located at Ferndale Community Services, 5694 2nd Avenue, Ferndale, WA. Three additional naloxone dispenser boxes will be placed at select locations throughout Whatcom County.
These boxes are designed to provide 24/7 access to naloxone, a medication that can rapidly reverse the effects of an opioid overdose. Naloxone is entirely safe to use, even if administered to someone who is not experiencing an opioid overdose.
The locations for the remaining three naloxone dispenser boxes will be strategically chosen based on community needs and accessibility to vulnerable populations. WCHCS is working closely with local organizations to determine the most effective placement for these units.
"Making naloxone readily available in public spaces is a critical step in our ongoing efforts to reduce opioid-related deaths in Whatcom County," said Dr. Amy Harley, WCHCS Health Officer. "These dispenser boxes ensure that community members have access to this lifesaving tool whenever and wherever it's needed."
The boxes, which dispense naloxone kits at no cost, are intended for individuals who have no other way to access naloxone or who seek privacy and discretion when obtaining the medication. Naloxone can also be purchased at pharmacies throughout Whatcom County. Individuals can also visit whatcomoverdoseprevention.org to find a list of resources where they can order free naloxone kits online.
WCHCS encourages community members to learn more about how to recognize and respond to an opioid overdose and to take advantage of the resources available through this new program. By working together, we can save lives and help prevent the devastating effects of opioid overdoses in our community.
For more information about overdose prevention, visit whatcomoverdoseprevention.org
