[News]: KFL&A Public Health to Host Information Workshop on Opioids

Kingston - On Tuesday, April 11, 2017, at 6:30 p.m., in the Cafetorium at Loyalist Collegiate Vocational Institute (L.C.V.I), KFL&A Public Health is hosting an information evening on opioids for parents and caregivers to find out what they need to know to keep children and youth safe within our community.

Illicit fentanyl, a highly potent opioid, has been confirmed in our area in a variety of fake prescription pills and other street drugs, such as cocaine, crystal meth, heroin, and marijuana.  Illicit fentanyl is known to be deadly in small amounts, making the risk of overdosing extremely high.  Ingesting even a small amount can be fatal.

“There has never been a more important time to discuss the risks of drug use in our community,” explained Dr. Kieran Moore, Associate Medical Officer of Health at KFL&A Public Health. “Illicit opioids are a significant risk to youth, where the first pill taken can be their last.”

A panel of health professionals and community partners will present to attendees on the following topics, starting at 7:00 p.m.:

• Opioids and Illicit Fentanyl: Introduction and Overview – Dr. Kieran Moore, Associate Medical Officer of Health, KFL&A Public Health 
• Overview of Opioid Overdose, Naloxone, and Naloxone Kits – Dr. Meredith Mackenzie, Physician, Street Health Centre, a part of Kingston Community Health Centres
• Community Resources for Addictions and Mental Health: Connection to Community Partners and Resources Available for Students in High School – Shawn Quigley, Executive Director, Youth Diversion and Kairos
• Police Perspective: Know the Law and What the Police are Seeing in Our Community – Constable Carolyn Gauthier, Kingston Police
• Parenting: How to Talk to Your Kids – Lisa Lollar, R.N., Public Health Nurse, KFL&A Public Health

Community partner displays will be available for viewing starting at 6:30 p.m. Training for parents and caregivers on how to properly use naloxone kits will also be available.

Media are invited to attend the event to interview presenters and attendees.