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In Onondaga County, the number of drug overdose deaths is declining. County Executive Ryan McMahon announced that preliminary data for 2024 shows a nearly 40% drop in unattended opioid-related deaths compared to previous years. This positive trend reflects the success of various harm reduction and preventive strategies implemented in the community.
Emily Moore, a team leader and community educator for Prevention Network CNY, attributes the decline to the community's collaborative efforts and the implementation of evidence-based programs in schools and for families. Despite the progress, Moore emphasizes that the work is not over and continued efforts are necessary to sustain the decline in overdose deaths.
To further combat the opioid epidemic, Onondaga County plans to open a drop-in center by the end of spring. The center, developed in partnership with Catholic Charities and AccessCNY, will provide a safe space for individuals to experience positive interactions and programming in a welcoming atmosphere. According to WSYR, the county hopes this initiative will contribute to a further decrease in overdose deaths.