Emergency services have been called to four separate incidents (non fatal) involving five people in the last twenty-four hours.
At this stage it’s not clear what has caused an unusually high number of incidents in such a short timeframe but public health experts have chosen to issue precautionary advice.
Harm Reduction Co-ordinator John Glenday said: “Injecting illicit drugs is extremely hazardous. There are no safeguards or actions which can make it completely safe. We would urge drug users if they are unable to abstain from drugs to smoke, snort or swallow rather than inject them. If they must inject they should take basic precautions to reduce the risk of fatal overdose.”
Advice includes:
‘Street’ heroin can vary widely in strength and is frequently ‘cut’ with other drugs or materials that in themselves can be harmful.
Be especially careful if their tolerance to opiates may have been lowered – for instance during a prison sentence or after a drug detoxification course.
Remember there is less chance of life-saving help if they inject when they are alone. Always inject a small ‘test dose’ first to gauge the strength of the heroin.
Never mix drugs as this can increase the risk of overdose, particularly if heroin is mixed with benzodiazepines such as diazepam and/or alcohol.
Never share injecting needles or equipment – there are a number of life-threatening infections that can be passed on this way, including Hepatitis B and C and HIV.
We would urge injecting drug users to seek professional help as soon as possible.
North Police say that investigations into the incidents are continuing.
Inverness Area Commander, Chief Inspector Julian Innes said: “We support the advice given by our health colleagues and continue to warn those dealing in drugs that they will be targeted by Northern Constabulary and they will be prosecuted. If anyone has any information about drug dealing, they should contact police on 01463 715555 or phone Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.”
If you have any drug related concerns you are urged to contact the following people for advice and information:
John Glenday, Harm Reduction Co-ordinator 01463 704813
Osprey House 01463 716888
Highland Drug and Alcohol Action Team 01463 704603
Needle exchange staff can provide anonymous advice. A list of local needle exchanges can be found on the Drug and Alcohol Action Team website at www.hdaat.org.uk
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