MEDIA RELEASE: Overdose Spike Alert for Tioga County, New York

Last Updated: 2/2/2024

Tioga County Public Health has observed a spike in drug overdoses in Tioga County, New York between January 30, 2024 and February 2, 2024. The reported overdoses were all non-fatal, and Narcan was administered to each individual. While it is unknown if the overdoses are related, the suspected drug causing the overdoses was heroin. The public is warned about the possibility of a substance laced with a potent opioid in our area.

Overdose deaths frequently involve fentanyl, a synthetic opioid that is up to 50 times stronger than heroin, and often unknowingly mixed in with other substances. Tioga County Public Health recommends that family members, caregivers, and people who spend time with those who have a substance use disorder know the signs of an opioid overdose, which include:   

• Cold, clammy skin  
• Difficulty waking or speaking
• Slow or no heart rate
• Slow or no breathing
• Limp body
• Pinpoint pupils  
• Gurgling or choking sounds
• Blue or purplish lips or fingernails                  

Call 911 immediately if these symptoms of an overdose are present.  

An opioid overdose can be reversed by using the medication Narcan, also known as Naloxone, when administered in time. Due to Tioga County’s large geographic make up, first responders may not make it to a scene in time to reverse an overdose. Keeping Narcan on hand can greatly increase the chance of survival should an opioid overdose be occurring. Narcan is not addictive and does not cause harm if administered during another medical emergency.    

Narcan nasal spray is free and available through the following agencies in Tioga County:

Tioga County Public Health

1062 State Route 38

Owego, NY 13827

607-687-8612

Tioga County Mental Hygiene

1062 State Route 38

Owego, NY 13827

607-687-0200

CASA-Trinity

72 North Ave.

Owego, NY 13827

607-223-4066

Narcan is also available through Public Access Narcan Boxes around the county and through many pharmacies. To find additional locations in New York State where Narcan may be accessed, please visit https://providerdirectory.aidsinstituteny.org/.