- 18K lives later, B.C. marks 10 years since declaring overdose emergency Global News —
- 18,000 lives later, B.C. marks 10 years since declaring overdose emergency CTV News —
- B.C. declared toxic drugs a public health emergency 10 years ago. Has it made a difference? CBC —
- Spike in drug-related deaths in B.C. persists a decade after public health emergency declaration 📹 CTV News —
- Saskatoon sees 150 overdose calls in under two weeks, prompting public alert Global News —
- Historic decline in U.S. overdose deaths threatened by changing street drug supply NPR —
Overdose emergency marks 10 years
Events are being held across British Columbia to mark 10 years since the province declared a public health emergency related to the toxic drug crisis.
Since the declaration in 2016, more than 18,000 people have lost their lives, highlighting the ongoing challenges in addressing the epidemic.
Advocates and health officials are calling for more robust support services and a shift in drug policy as the death toll continues to rise.
While some progress has been made in harm reduction, experts warn that the changing street drug supply poses new and dangerous risks.
The anniversary serves as a somber reminder of the thousands of families impacted by the crisis.