August 25, 2025
Media Contact: Dr Zelalem Attlee, Zelalem.Attlee@vdh.virginia.gov
The Rappahannock-Rapidan Health District Provides Services to Reduce Overdose Deaths
International Overdose Awareness Day is August 31.
WARRENTON, Va. – August 31 is International Overdose Awareness Day, a day to remember and grieve loved ones who lost their lives to drug overdoses the Rappahannock-Rapidan Health District is a key community partner in the fight to prevent drug overdoses. The Rappahannock-Rapidan Health District provides support, encourages recovery, and spreads overdose prevention awareness.
Fatal drug overdose is the leading cause of accidental death in Virginia. In 2024, 1,403 Virginians tragically lost their lives to drug overdoses. In the past five years, the Rappahannock-Rapidan Health District has experienced more than 200 overdose deaths. However, the drug overdose emergency department visit rates have been declining from 79.5% in 2020 to 37.5% in 2024.
Every life lost to overdose is a tragedy that ripples through families, schools, and workplaces. We honor those we have lost by strengthening our commitment to prevention, treatment, and recovery.
Every life lost to overdose is a tragedy that ripples through families, schools, and workplaces. We honor those we have lost by strengthening our commitment to prevention, treatment, and recovery. the Rappahannock-Rapidan Health District overdose prevention services include:
- Naloxone kits,
- Overdose reversal education,
- Drug test strips,
- HIV and hepatitis testing, and
- Connections to medical care and support services.
Learn how to recognize and respond to an opioid overdose at the Rappahannock-Rapidan Health District ’s REVIVE! Training. To schedule your naloxone training email AskRRHD@vdh.virginia.gov or call your local health department. You can also email questions to overdose@vdh.virginia.gov.
For more information on drug overdose prevention resources, contact the Rappahannock-Rapidan Health District at AskRRHD@vdh.virginia.gov. You can also email questions to overdose@vdh.virginia.gov.
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