Overdose crisis shows no signs of abating in Saskatoon with 19 cases per day

Primary care paramedics with the Saskatoon Fire Department are equipped with naloxone, which can restore breathing to someone experiencing a fentanyl or opioid overdose. (Alex Pankratz/CTV Saskatoon)

The overdose crisis in Saskatoon persists with an average of 19 cases per day between March 14 and 17.

The Saskatchewan Ministry of Health sent its sixth update late Tuesday, warning of a heightened overdose risk in the city.

According to the ministry, the Saskatoon Fire Department (SFD) has responded to over 350 overdoses since March 1, including multiple suspicious deaths.

Prairie Harm Reduction has confirmed that the same brownish-red substance with dangerous levels of fentanyl, tested last week, continues to cause overdoses.

“The fentanyl is having unusual, delayed effects, can cause sleepiness first, then stop breathing. Multiple doses (4-5) of naloxone required to revive patients, oxygen and paramedic response have also been needed,” the ministry said in its update.

Last week, in response to the ongoing crisis the provincial government activated the Provincial Emergency Operations Centre to improve communication and support organizations dealing with overdoses.

According to the ministry of health, this alert will remain in effect until March 25, at 11:59 p.m.