Yukon declares substance use health emergency as xylazine-linked overdose deaths rise.

Yukon's Health Minister Tracy-Anne McPhee reported that xylazine, a veterinary tranquillizer, is linked to a rise in overdose deaths in the territory. The coroner's service is investigating six suspected toxic drug deaths from September 23 to October 4, four of which are confirmed as drug-related, bringing this year's total to 12. Xylazine is not an opioid and cannot be reversed with naloxone, heightening risks for users. A substance use health emergency has been declared since January 2022.

October 12, 2024
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