The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported a decrease in fatal overdoses both nationwide and in New York State. Overdose deaths in New York dropped by 5.17% from 2022 to 2023, marking a positive shift amidst the ongoing crisis.
Despite the statewide decrease, some areas like Erie County continue to see rising overdose rates. Erie County Health Commissioner Gale Burstein noted an increase in overdoses among older and more racially diverse populations, with a significant rise in cocaine use mixed with fentanyl.
Monroe County Sheriff’s Office Deputy Michael Favata credited community efforts and Narcan availability for the decline, emphasizing the importance of direct intervention. Although health professionals remain cautious about the data, the decrease offers a glimmer of hope in tackling the overdose epidemic.
FingerLakes1.com is the region’s leading all-digital news publication. The company was founded in 1998 and has been keeping residents informed for more than two decades. Have a lead? Send it to [email protected].