5 suspected overdose deaths in under a week prompt drug alert for Waterloo region

Five people died from suspected overdoses or drug poisonings in less than a week, prompting a community drug alert from the Waterloo Region Integrated Drugs Strategy.

The alert was issued Tuesday after the five suspected drug-related deaths between June 12 and 17.

"The unregulated drug supply is unpredictable and unexpected reactions may occur," the alert says, adding the current weather may also be playing a role.

"Hot and humid conditions are expected through most of the week. There can be increased risk of death from drug toxicity during very hot weather."

Extreme heat can lead to decreased levels of consciousness, and using stimulants can increase a person's heart rate, causing an increase in body temperature. This can also cause dehydration.

"Dehydration from extreme heat can affect your tolerance to drugs and can increase the risk of death from an overdose or drug poisoning," the alert says.

People who use drugs are reminded not to take them while alone and to have the overdose-remedy naloxone ready and know how to use it. Mixing substances is also discouraged.

People can also use the consumption and treatment site in downtown Kitchener, which includes a drug checking service.

The Region of Waterloo's overdose and drug poisoning dashboard shows that so far in 2024, there have been 44 suspected deaths. The causes of those deaths have not been confirmed by the Office of the Chief Coroner of Ontario.