Amid opioid epidemic, Oregon’s top DEA agent carries overdose kit

PORTLAND, Ore. (AP) — The DEA’s top agent in Oregon is so worried about the opioid epidemic and about Fentanyl — which is many times stronger than heroin — hitting the state that just about every time he steps out into the street, he goes packing.

Cam B. Strahm, assistant special agent in charge of the Drug Enforcement Administration, says use of both heroin and prescription pills is spiking. And he says that Fentanyl, which is many times stronger than heroin, presents an even greater threat.

Strahm tries to bring an opioid overdose kit with him whenever he goes out. A black zippered bag, looking like a travel toiletry kit, contains Narcan, which when administered through the nose can revive someone who has overdosed.