Interior Health issues methamphetamine drug alert for Vernon

Photo: Interior Health

Interior Health has issued a drug alert in Vernon involving purple fentanyl, which causes prolonged sedation.

The notice was delivered on Friday, July 17, stating that methamphetamine was found as the primary substance in their tested sample of purple fentanyl. Caffeine was also found in their test.

The benzo strip test was found to be indeterminant, which is a cause for concern from the health agency.

"Sedation with an indeterminant benzo strip is concerning for benzos in this substance," says IH in the drug alert. "ODs involving benzos may not fully respond to naloxone, continue to give breaths and seek medical attention if naloxone does not work."

Interior Health advises on not using drugs alone, and to avoid using different drugs at the same time. They ask users to start with a small amount and go slow, and have someone check on you.

If you are using alone, they encourage you to download the Lifeguard app, which is available on both Apple and Android devices.

To get your drugs checked, you can visit Cammy LaFleur at Street outreach or the downtown MHSU and OPS. Naloxone kits and training are available from Cammy Lafluer at Street Outreach, Interior Health MHSU & Public Health and Turning Points Collaborative.

The alert will remain in effect until July 24.