Tioga Overdose Deaths Post Huge Increase

The number of deaths from drug overdoses being reported in Tioga County in 2019 is double what was reported the previous year. 

Officials say the statistics for the last year included mixed drug use and other additional information from coroner reports. 

Seventeen deaths were reported for 2019. Eight were reported in 2018 and 2017. There were 14 recorded overdose deaths in 2015.

Health officials throughout the region have reported an increase in the presence of fentanyl in deadly drug cases.  Fentanyl is very cheap, potent and dangerous and it is often mixed in with other narcotics like methamphetamine, cocaine and heroin, with or without the user’s knowledge.

Authorities say with the increased awareness about the reversal drug: Narcan and the availability of the kits and training, the number of overdose deaths could be far greater.