Delaware reports 60 percent increase in overdose deaths, Naloxone distribution planned in Seaford

SEAFORD, Del. – Delaware state health officials say there’s been a major increase in suspected drug overdose deaths during the pandemic so they’re teaming up with Seaford officials to distribute free opioid rescue kits.

Officials tell 47 ABC that Delaware is seeing increased overdose rates during the coronavirus pandemic with 39 suspected overdose deaths in May, tying the highest monthly total. There were 160 total suspected overdose deaths in Delaware at the end of May, a 60 percent increase over a similar period of 2019. Officials are hoping these kits, which have two doses of Naloxone in them, will help save lives in a part of the state that may not have an abundance of resources.

“We believe a lot of resources go to the more populous areas when in fact we’ve seen an increase in overdoses all over the state. So we just thought the appropriate place to go was Seaford,” says Trinidad Navarro, the Delaware Insurance Commissioner.

The distribution event is taking place on Monday July 27th from 4 PM to 6 PM at Williams Pond Park in Seaford. Health officials will give the free kits out car-side along with trainings about how to use the overdose reversal drug.

Aquila Behavioral Health of Delaware is also serving as a partner for this distribution. Aquila provides comprehensive psychiatric and substance abuse treatment statewide. You can learn more by calling 302-999-1106.

The Division of Substance Abuse and Mental Health launched the 24/7 Hope line to serve as a single point of contact for resources, info, clinical and peer support and crisis assistance. If you or a loved one are struggling with substance abuse, do not wait, find help today. Call 1-833-9-HOPEDE or visit HelpisHereDE.com.