Loved ones urged to attend April 22
One in four people know someone who is addicted to opioids.
Between 4,000 and 6,000 people in Allen County are using heroin, and perhaps 40,000 altogether are addicted to opioids.
In 2016, there were 804 overdoses in Allen County, including 82 in the first two months of the year. In January and February this year, there were 150 overdoses, nearly double the rate of last year.
In 2016, Allen County had 68 overdose deaths. In January and February this year, there were 25, not including 11 deaths where lab results have not come in.
Those were some of the numbers discussed Tuesday at a news conference by police and health officials at Citizens Square, emphasizing the severity of the opioid crisis and promoting a seminar.
The seminar, which will be from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. April 22 at the Public Safety Academy at 7602 Patriot Crossing, will discuss solutions and resources for anyone with an addiction or with a family member or friend with an addiction.