Opioid-related deaths are trending down in Livingston County, even as the crisis remains a major public health concern across New York and the U.S.
The latest quarterly report from the New York State Department of Health shows that six people died from opioid overdoses in Livingston County in 2024 — half the total reported in 2022, and down from 11 in 2023.
Health officials say it’s a sign that local prevention, treatment, and harm-reduction efforts are working — but warn the fight isn’t over.
“These numbers reflect the hard work of our local health partners — from first responders to treatment, mental health and public health providers — who are on the front lines of this fight every day,” said Jennifer Rodriguez, Livingston County’s public health director. “We’re encouraged to see opioid-related deaths trending in the right direction, but even one is too many.”
Local data vs. statewide crisis
Livingston County’s opioid death rate remains below the statewide average. The report also found that naloxone — the overdose-reversing medication — was used 21 times across the county in 2024. All six recorded overdoses that year involved synthetic opioids other than methadone.
The state health department releases quarterly data on overdoses, hospitalizations, and emergency room visits as part of a broader strategy to help counties respond to the opioid crisis. The reports are available publicly and help local officials plan targeted interventions and allocate resources where they’re most needed.
Across the U.S., opioid use continues to take a devastating toll. The CDC estimates that nearly 80,000 of the 105,000 drug overdose deaths reported in 2023 involved opioids.
New outreach efforts underway
Locally, the Livingston County Department of Health has stepped up its outreach with a public awareness campaign focused on opioid education, stigma reduction, and support services. The campaign is designed to educate residents about opioid use disorder and the dangers of recreational drug use.
Residents can visit LivingstonHope.org to learn more about the campaign and available local resources. Additional information is also available by calling the health department at 585-243-7250.
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