The City of Burnaby will be kicking off a pilot program in early fall that will place nasal naloxone spray in libraries and community centres.
The nasal spray, also known by the brand name Narcan, is expected to be available at the facilities in September or October, along with training for staff.
While naloxone is most commonly distributed in an injectable form it also exists as a nasal spray, which was chosen for the city facilities because it is easier to administer. While paramedics and firefighters use injection naloxone, police typically carry the nasal spray variation.
In a report, city staff noted the increased risk of fatal overdoses as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Not only are people using alone more frequently due to physical distancing, they’re also forced to seek out alternative drug supplies due to disrupted supply chains from closed borders. That alternative drug supply has often meant a higher chance of heavy concentrations of fentanyl.
In Burnaby, 19 people have died of overdoses this year, a figure that, if trends continue, would mark a significant increase over 2019. Meanwhile, B.C. as a whole has seen two consecutive record-setting months for overdose deaths, with 175 dead in June.
The naloxone kits in the pilot program will be placed in the same containers as defibrillators, which members of the public can access in case of an emergency. It will be available at these facilities: Cameron Public Library, McGill Public Library, Bonsor Recreation Complex, Eileen Dailly Leisure Pool and Fitness Centre, Cameron Recreation Complex, Edmonds Community Centre, Bob Prittie Metrotown Public Library and Tommy Douglas Public Library.
During the naloxone pilot program, the city will collect data on usage of the overdose-reversing substance, and staff will evaluate the use of the naloxone kits.
Staff noted naloxone has an 18-month to two-year expiry date, and each kit, containing two doses, costs roughly $100.
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