Residents of Kingston and the area are urged to use extreme caution when using drugs, as a toxic lot is circulating in Kingston, Frontenac, Lennox and Addington.

The beige / yellow colored drugs from toxicology reports for the past few weeks indicate the presence of fentanyl in the local drug supply. As a result, overdoses can occur instantly and lead to prolonged sedation and disorientation that can last for hours.

According to the health unit, since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, the supply of drugs has become more contaminated and unpredictable. The health unit is warning the public that drugs of any color can be contaminated.

KFL & A Public Health reminds drug users not to mix or use alone and to always have a naloxone kit nearby. They add that when using, practice social distancing and make sure someone is present who knows how to use a naloxone kit. If there is no one, the National overdose response service is an anonymous 24/7 helpline to call at 1-888-688-6677.

And if there is a medical emergency, the public health unit says to always dial 9-1-1.

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Harm reduction advocates say coronavirus pandemic has caused surge in drug overdoses in Montreal