Toxic drug alert: Prince George

The new state-of-the-art hospital in Terrace has reached another important milestone as it has been gifted a Tsimshian name, Ksyen Regional Hospital, Terrace. The name recognizes the territory in which the hospital was built and the region it serves.
Local First Nations and municipal leaders had discussions together about the naming of the hospital. It was agreed that a Tsimshian name proposed by the Kitsumkalum First Nation would be the name submitted to be approved by the Northern Health Board of Directors and the Province.

Northern Health has issued a Toxic Drug Alert for Prince George. A purple drug sold as “down” has tested positive for high levels of fentanyl and bromazolam (benzodiazepine), and has been linked to an increase in overdoses in the community of Prince George. Overdoses are occurring when the drug is smoked and injected.

There has been an increase in overdoses in the community of Prince Rupert linked to drugs sold as “down”. Overdoses occurring when drugs are smoked, individuals require multiple doses of naloxone to reverse.
Take care, drugs move throughout the North, please share this alert widely. We have included safety recommendations below.

There has been an increase in overdoses in the community of Prince George.
People in Fort St. James will soon have enhanced access to high-quality health care as the new hospital and health centre nears substantial completion.
Residents of Kitimat and area will benefit from better access to diagnostic imaging services with the funding committed and the planning beginning for a new CT scanner at Kitimat General Hospital.
“With meaningful community partnerships, people in Kitimat will be able to get the scans they need faster and closer to home,” said Adrian Dix, Minister of Health. “Adding a new CT scanner at the Kitimat General Hospital is part of the actions our government is taking to expand health services and ensure patients have access to necessary and life-saving care.”

There has been an increase in overdoses in the community of Dawson Creek linked to a chunky purple substance sold as “side”. This drug causes sudden overdose when smoked. It has taken multiple doses of naloxone to reverse.