â–ş Listen Live
â–ş Listen Live

B.C. reports record-high number of toxic drug deaths in 2021

Throughout 2021, toxic drugs claimed the lives of 2,224 British Columbians, setting a record high for the province.

According to data from the B.C. Coroners Service, 215 people were killed by toxic drug overdoses in B.C. in December, the highest monthly total for the entirety of 2021. September had the fewest number of drug deaths throughout the year, at 153.

“The number of people who died from the toxic drug supply last year is unacceptable and we must do more to prevent this tragic loss of life. While the Province is adding new services and supports to our health-care system each week, B.C. faces a rising tide of need,” said a statement from Dr. Bonnie Henry, B.C.’s provincial health officer, and Sheila Malcolmson, Minister of Mental Health and Addictions.

Throughout 2021, fentanyl has been detected in 83% of drug-related fatalities, compared to 85% in 2020.

“We must reduce the fear and shame that leads so many to hide their drug use, avoid services and use deadly drugs alone. Addiction is not a choice, it’s a health condition. That’s why we continue to push Health Canada to approve our exemption so we can implement decriminalization of people who use drugs throughout B.C.,” said the statement.

In the East Kootenay, 22 people died from toxic drugs in 2021, with 29 people dying in the Kootenay Boundary region.

Five people died in the Kootenay Boundary in December. Meanwhile, toxic drugs killed one person in the East Kootenay.

More: Illicit Drug Toxicity Deaths in BC (B.C. Coroners Service)

Continue Reading

chnv Now playing play

ckkc Now playing play

- Advertisement -

Related Articles

- Advertisement -

Latest News

Warmer-than-normal fall expected in Kootenays

The Kootenays should again see a warmer-than-typical fall.

Nelson police reports major drop in several crime categories

The Nelson Police Department credits a drop in several key crime categories to proactive efforts by officers and the public. 

Public sector workers escalate job action as strike enters third week

The B.C. General Employees Union and the Professional Employees Association are escalating job action as their members enter a third week of strikes. 

B.C. approves environmental certificate for massive LNG project on northern coast

British Columbia has given the green light to a floating liquified natural gas (LNG) export facility on B.C.’s northern coast. 

B.C. forecast to reach record high $11.6B deficit this year

British Columbia’s deficit is only going up, according to the latest budget update.
- Advertisement -