New state program offers opioid overdose prevention kits

Oregon Health Authority launches pilot project

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) -- The Oregon Health Authority is launching a new program in an effort to combat opioid overdoses.

Reverse Overdose Oregon is a new pilot campaign that will provide first responders and various work environments with naloxone to treat opioid overdoses.

Naloxone helps reverse the effects of an overdose. It can be purchased through a pharmacy and does not require s prescription.

As part of the pilot project, the OHA is providing naloxone kits that includes gloves, antiseptic wipes and information on how to administer naloxone.

Over 8,000 kits will be distributed to various counties across the state.

"In addition to distributing these kits to county partners and employers around the state, we are also providing training for people who use this drug, can use it and use it effectively," Robb Cowie, communications director of OHA, said Monday.

Cowie said the naloxone kits will help reduce drug-related deaths.

"Each week, on average, five people die from an opioid overdose," he said. "That's what we're trying to stop, and making more of this life-saving drug available will help do that."

A total of 16 counties will participate in the pilot program, including Deschutes County.