The Rappahannock-Rapidan Health District Offers Drug Overdoses Prevention Resources
International Overdose Awareness Day is August 31
WARRENTON, Va. – Fatal drug overdose is a leading cause of unintentional death in Virginia. In 2024, 1,548 Virginians tragically lost their lives to drug overdoses. The Rappahannock-Rapidan Health District strives to offer support and spread prevention resources.
Fatal drug overdoses have been decreasing throughout Virginia. Recent Virginia Department of Health (VDH) data show encouraging progress as drug overdose deaths decreased 37% in 2024 compared with 2023. Preliminary data for 2025 show a continued decreasing trend.
International Overdose Awareness Day (IOAD) is August 31. The Rappahannock-Rapidan Health District encourages all community members to learn how to recognize and respond to a drug overdose. Recognizing the signs of a drug overdose and acting fast can save a life. Here are some things to look for:
- Unconsciousness or inability to awaken
- Breathing problems or changes
- Changes in heart rate
- Vomiting or making gurgling noises
- Discolored skin (especially in nails or lips)
- Small constricted “pinpoint pupils” that don’t react to light or enlarged pupils
If you suspect a person may be having an overdose, you may be able to help save a life by following this guidance:
- Call 911 immediately.
- Administer naloxone, or another opioid overdose reversal medication, if available.
- Try to keep the person awake and breathing.
- Lay the person on their side to prevent choking.
- Stay with the person until emergency workers arrive.
Naloxone is a life-saving medication used to reverse an opioid overdose. If there are opioids present in a person’s body, naloxone will reverse the opioid effects. If no opioids are present, naloxone will not have any effect. The nasal spray version of naloxone, Narcan®, is often available at no cost. For information on how to get naloxone and how to use it, contact Rappahannock-Rapidan Health District at www.rrhd.org or visit the Virginia Department of Health website.
For more information on drug overdose prevention resources, contact Rappahannock-Rapidan Health District at www.rrhd.org.
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