WESTERLY, R.I. (AP) - Accidental drug overdoses have decreased across Rhode Island, but officials say there is still a public health crisis.
Department of Health data show there were 34 overdose deaths in March, the highest monthly total since the 35 deaths in February 2016. Overdose deaths declined to 23 in April and 14 in May. More recent data is still being compiled.
Health Department spokesman Joseph Wendelken told The Westerly Sun (https://bit.ly/2eHnbNP ) that the recent decrease is due to a number of factors, but he warned overdoses are still a public health crisis.
He said overdoses are seasonal and there usually is an increase during the winter months. The state also has introduced a prescription drug monitoring program to limit the use of opioids and increased access to the overdose antidote naloxone.
Please read our comment policy before commenting.