- Hub staff

International Overdose Awareness Day (IOAD) is a global event held on August 31st each year - the world’s largest annual campaign to end overdose, remember without stigma those who have died and acknowledge the grief of the family and friends left behind.

Overdose is our most lethal public health epidemic in Grey-Bruce, with an estimated 37 fatal overdoses since March 2020.   Our most sincere condolences go to those who have lost a son, sister, mother, brother, father, partner or friend. 

Overdoses usually occur accidentally when someone takes more of an opioid dose than their body can handle. As a result the brain is not able to control basic life functions.

This can happen if someone:

Has just started using an opioid drug
Resumes taking an opioid drug after a period of not taking one for a while
Switches from one opioid drug to another
Takes more than their usual opioid dose
Takes more than one drug at the same time
Develops an illness when taking opioid drugs.

When an opioid overdose occurs, breathing becomes slower and shallower, and in more serious overdoses, stops completely. This may result in loss of consciousness, brain damage and death.

Naloxone kits and training is available for free at the Grey Bruce Public Health Unit, Monday to Friday 8:30 am to 4 pm, no appointment or prescription needed. Training is also available at local pharmacies.