Spike in child overdoses in Hamilton Co.
HAMILTON COUNTY, Tenn. (WDEF) — The Hamilton County Health Department warned there has been a spike in overdoses among children.
They say these overdoses have been both fatal and non-fatal.
Child overdose numbers have increase in the past few months. They say local hospitals and law enforcement have treated an “alarming” number of young children for illicit drug exposure.
Normally, overdoses among children are rare. The health department says this kind of spike has never happened in Hamilton County before.
The overdoses are from suspected fentanyl, opioids and other illicit drugs. They added that fentanyl is 50 times more potent than heroin. It’s also 100 times stronger than morphine.
If a child has been exposed to fentanyl or other opioids, give them naloxone if available. Immediately call 911 as well.
The FDA noted that drowsiness is one of the most reported symptoms of fentanyl in small children. The health department added a list of other signs that a child may be having an overdose or being exposed to fentanyl.
- Difficulty breathing
- Drooling or dry mouth
- Swollen face, tongue, or throat
- Agitation
- High body temperature
- Muscle stiffness
- Shortness of breath
In addition, they listed precautions to take if someone in the home is using illicit drugs. This is to reduce the risk of an accidental overdose. Those precautions are:
- If someone in the home uses illicit drugs despite all recommendations, please make sure no children are present. Any fumes or powders inhaled can be fatal to a child.
- If you have naloxone, keep it in a place where family, friends, and close contacts can easily locate it in an emergency. Advise family and friends on how to administer it in the event of accidental exposure or overdose.
- If you are a caretaker that is struggling with substance misuse, help is available. Please call/text the Tennessee REDLINE at 800-889-9789.
The health department says if any Tennessee residents have legitimate concerns about a child’s safety, they should report it immediately. Reports can go to the Tennessee Department of Children’s Services or calling the hotline at 877-237-0004.
