Overdoses

health department offices in Troy.

Since mid-April, 147 kits have been distributed. Each kit contains two 4-milligram doses. Refills can be distributed, though no requests for refills have been received, Propes said.

Propes said the countywide Heroin Coalition continues to watch what is happening with drug use and overdoses while working to provide education and treatment.

“We are very cognizant of the fact this issue can turn on a dime,” he said.

The coalition includes representatives of law enforcement, the courts, health agencies, treatment organizations, the faith community and others.

“Right now, it is an opiate issue we are dealing with, and it is quickly turning from a heroin issue to a fentanyl issue. It could quickly turn back to a meth issue or another drug issue,” Propes said. “We are focusing on issues, but are going to be agile enough to be able to react to that changing environment as well so we are not stuck flat-footed when it does change, because it will.”

The health department is also looking at the rise in Hepatitis C cases associated with drug use.

Propes’ comments with commissioners came during what he said was a visit being held by department representatives with governments throughout the county to ensure the department is meeting their needs.