Kent County now of concern following overdose surge in Sussex

KENT COUNTY, Del. – Delaware State Police along with the Delaware Department of Health and Social Services (DHSS) are issuing yet another urgent safety advisory following a surge in suspected overdoses, this time in Kent County.

Earlier this week, a similar safety advisory was issued for Sussex County after health officials and state police reported a significant increase in overdoses, tragically resulting in at least one fatality and severe medical emergencies.

As of Friday, DHSS reports they are now seeing cases in Kent County that require intubation and a level of care that has been seen in Sussex during the recent overdose spike, as well as a suspected fatality related to overdose.

There have been 42 suspected overdoses in Kent County since April 26. Kent County suspected overdoses were not included in previous safety updates. However, data is now included due to recent activity in Kent County showing similarities to the activity in Sussex County, according to state health officials and Delaware State Police.

Between April 26 and May 3, 2024, troopers recorded a significant increase in the number of suspected overdoses and the severity of the emergencies in Sussex County.

To date, there have been 83 suspected overdoses in Sussex County. Toxicology tests are pending to confirm two additional suspected overdose fatalities, bringing the total of suspected overdose fatalities to five over the same time period for Kent and Sussex counties.

“We are seeing a greater number of patients being treated for suspected overdose but, more notably, a significant increase in the severity of the effects of overdoses,” said Delaware Division of Substance Abuse and Mental Health Director Joanna Champney. “This severity is reflected in a greater percentage of patients needing admission with many of them requiring intubation, ICU level care, and multiple days in the hospital.”

While the majority of suspected overdoses have been in the Georgetown, Millsboro, and Milford areas, incidents are occurring throughout Sussex County.

State Police enlisted the Delaware National Guard to conduct testing on Wednesday on a sampling of the drugs found in those who had overdosed to determine the composition of the substance.

The Delaware National Guard’s 31st Civil Support Team has the capability to test for a broad spectrum of chemicals. Initial samples showed packages containing Xylazine, Bromazolam, Fentanyl, Quinine, and Caffeine.

DHSS and Delaware State Police urge the public to exercise extreme caution, refrain from consuming unknown substances, and avoid illegal drugs altogether.

Individuals struggling with substance abuse are encouraged to seek immediate assistance from medical professionals or addiction support services. To assist those in need, DHSS offers several avenues for support:

• 911: In cases of overdose or medical emergencies, dial or text 911.
• Delaware 211: Dial 2-1-1 or visit delaware211.org for free, confidential assistance in multiple languages.
• Delaware Hope Line: Call 1-833-9-HOPEDE (1-833-946-7333) for 24/7 access to resources, support, and crisis assistance.
• Bridge Clinics: Explore treatment services and resources in Delaware and neighboring states. In-person assessments are available at locations in New Castle, Kent, and Sussex counties.
• Treatment Connection: Find nearby treatment providers at TreatmentConnection.com.
• 988: For immediate crisis support, dial 988.
• Narcan Training and OpiRescueDE App: Information on Narcan training and accessing medication is available online.

The safety and well-being of all Delawareans are paramount, and collaborative efforts are underway to address this critical public safety issue, according to police. They urge everyone to remain vigilant and take proactive steps to protect themselves and their communities.