Kane County Health Department Encourages Community to Carry Naloxone During the Holiday Season

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As families gather and holiday activities ramp up, the Kane County Health Department (KCHD) is reminding residents that carrying naloxone is a simple, lifesaving step anyone can take. The holidays can be a particularly vulnerable time for individuals struggling with substance use, and naloxone is an easy-to-use nasal spray that reverses opioid overdoses.

To promote awareness and reduce stigma, KCHD has released a video featuring staff from across the department sharing why they choose to carry naloxone and why they encourage others to do the same. Watch the video here: https://youtube.com/shorts/LZQ-3mbtMnE?feature=share

“Naloxone is easy to use, easy to carry, and it saves lives," said Michael Isaacson, KCHD Executive Director. “Whether you're at a holiday gathering, out shopping, or attending community events, being prepared can make all the difference."

Key messages highlighted in the video include:

• Naloxone is safe, effective, and available without a prescription.
• Anyone can carry naloxone and respond to an overdose. 
• Acting quickly in an overdose emergency can keep someone alive until help arrives.

Free naloxone is available at over 100 places across Kane County. Community members are encouraged to learn where to get a kit and how to use it. For more information about naloxone, free pickup sites, and local substance use help, visit the Kane County Health Department website at overdoseinfo.org.