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Overdose deaths on the rise on Vancouver Island

Public health officials are taking steps to reduce the number of overdose deaths in British Columbia.

The provincial health officer declared a public health emergency in BC yesterday.

North Island Medical Health Officer, Doctor Charmaine Enns, says there has been a significant increase in overdose deaths on the island.

Enns says that historically, the average is one overdose death a week on Vancouver Island. Since the start of the New Year, Enns says there’s been over 40 deaths caused by an overdose.

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Enns says by collecting additional information medical health officers will be able to better understand the scope of the issue and develop interventions to help to stop the overdoses.

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