Opioid overdoses spike again
HUDSON—The Columbia County Department of Health reports in an April 21 press release that the county is in its second opioid overdose spike since the beginning of the NY on PAUSE social distancing order. In all, Columbia County has seen 19 overdoses since March 1.
It is likely that this dramatic uptick is connected to the Covid-19 pandemic and the cancellation/postponement of events, holidays, and closing of schools and many workplaces. This incredible reduction in human physical contact that is saving the public’s health is also putting those in active addiction and those in recovery at risk.
In these trying times, reach out to those you know who struggle. Human interaction does not have to mean physical contact. Continue to stay home, but make it a point to call, video chat, text message loved ones at least a few times a day. Being stuck at home is a perfect time to cultivate supportive relationships in one’s life, eat well, practice mindfulness, get in some exercise, and get good, quality sleep.
If you or a loved one is in active addiction, you are encouraged to take the following precautions:
• If you must use, use safely or seek help for your addiction
• Have access to Narcan. If you need a supply of Narcan call Greener Pathways at 518-822-7437
• Let a friend or loved one know where you are.
If someone you know experiences an overdose call 911 immediately. You can be protected by the Good Samaritan Law.
Help is available by calling Greener Pathways at 518-822-7437 or Columbia County Pathways To Recovery at 877-467-3365. In an emergency, call 911. Minutes matter in an overdose and you can save a life.
Blood is in short supply, donate
HUDSON—Columbia County is seeing a severe blood shortage due to the implementation of social distancing and cancellation of blood drives nationally.
If you are a person who is eligible to give blood, consider doing so at these upcoming local blood drives:
*Tuesday, April 28 at the Hudson City Firehouse, 95 North Seventh Street, from 1 to 6 p.m.
*Friday, May 8 at the Taconic Hills High School, 73 County Route 11A, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Hospital ball moves to fall
HUDSON—A new date has been set for the Columbia Memorial Health 32nd annual hospital ball.
The date is Saturday, October 3, 6:30 p.m. at the Kneller family’s Barn at Locust Hill, 5 Stockport Road with food prepared by Mazzone Catering.
The accomplishments of the hospital’s Cardiology Department will be recognized.
Reservation and sponsorship information may be obtained at foundation.columbiamemorialhealth.org/events
