Number of overdose deaths continue to rise in Delaware

In response to the uptick in overdose deaths due to opioids in Delaware, the state is now making a life saving drug more available.

Earlier this summer, Gov. John Carney signed a bill requiring all pharmacies to carry naloxone, a drug that can reverse the effects of an overdose.

Now after fine tuning logistics, pharmacies will be ready to start supplying those in need within the next month or two.   

Officials say this initiative is needed because this year there have already been over 160 overdose deaths in the state.

19 of those deaths happened in September, eight of those in Sussex County.

With naloxone set to be more readily available the Delaware Dept. of Health is making it a priority to teach and inform Delawareans on how to use the important drug.

"We encourage if people are in use of heroin, if they are in use of way too many prescription pain killers and they haven't sought treatment for addiction, we do ask they keep naxolone with them. If a loved one keeps it at their home you never know when someone may overdose," says Jill Fredel of DHSS.

The goal after naloxone is used is to get those suffering into treatment and recovery.