Wayne County announced they will deploy 100 free Naloxone (NARCAN) vending machines across Wayne County. This will be the single largest investment in Naloxone access in U.S. history, according to a news release.
The move is aimed at reducing opioid overdose deaths by making Naloxone widely available. Each kit contains two doses of the medication along with instructions for safe and effective use.
Driven by Fentanyl, an extremely potent and deadly opioid, overdose deaths have increased nationwide—particularly in Wayne County. Since 2013, overdose deaths have increased by 200% in Wayne County. In 2021, there were 902 overdose deaths, accounting for nearly 1/3 of the overdose deaths in Michigan, with 4 out 5 due to Fentanyl.
“For too long, stigma has kept our communities from doing what we can to save lives from Fentanyl poisoning,” said Deputy County Executive Assad I. Turfe. “We want to empower everyone in Wayne County to be a hero and save a life. Naloxone (NARCAN™) needs to be a part of every standard first aid kit.
The kits will be completely free and come at no cost to the public. At least one vending machine will be placed in each of Wayne County’s 43 communities – that’s 39 cities and four townships.
“Too often, people suffering substance use disorder die because they lack the means of stopping an overdose in its tracks,” said Dr. Abdul El-Sayed, Director of Wayne County’s Department of Health, Human and Veterans Services. “Naloxone (NARCAN) is a life-saving medication, one that should be available everywhere, including in first aid kits – if we’re serious about fighting this crisis.”
