For Immediate Release: August 27, 2024

Media Contact: Jon Teumer, DCHS Assistant Director, Clinical and Emergency Services, jonathan.teumer@alexandriava.gov, 703.746.5087

Alexandria, Va. – The City of Alexandria and communities in Virginia and around the world are coming together to remember those who have died or suffered injury due to drug overdose. Observed on August 31, International Overdose Awareness Day (IOAD) seeks to increase understanding of overdose, reduce the stigma of drug-related deaths, and create change that reduces the harms of drug use.

The 2024 theme “Together we can,” highlights the strength of coming together in support of those impacted by the tragedy of overdose. City Hall and Market Square (301 King St.) will be illuminated in purple to represent overdose awareness the evening of August 29 through the morning of September 1.  The light display will include data about local overdoses and their impact on the Alexandria community.

Across the USA, nearly 108,000 Americans lost their lives to overdose in 2023, the third consecutive year of more than 100,000 overdose deaths. Overdoses are primarily driven by synthetic opioids like fentanyl, which is 100 times more potent than morphine in unregulated drugs, powders and pills. Fentanyl is often pressed into pills and combined with other substances without the user’s knowledge. Consuming even a small amount can lead to an overdose. 

Narcan, a nasal spray that can reverse opioid overdoses, is available by calling the Alexandria Health Department at 703.746.4888 and can be obtained without a prescription at most pharmacies. All residents are encouraged to obtain Narcan as a first aid measure for any incidents they may unexpectedly encounter.

Residents are also asked to properly dispose of unwanted medicines at permanent drug drop boxes across the City of Alexandria to avoid misuse.  

The City’s Department of Community and Human Services can help locate treatment options in Alexandria for anyone dealing with substance use and is available 24 hours a day at 703.746.3636 (Virginia Relay 711). To get help with stopping the use of heroin or other opioids, call the Opioid Treatment Program intake line at 703.746.3610. 

To provide information regarding past overdoses or illegal drug activity, please call the Alexandria Police Department at 703.746.6277. 

Visit alexandriava.gov/Opioids for information about the City’s work to battle opioid addiction.