Cambria County saw a slight drop in the number of overdose deaths in 2017. However, investigators, first responders and locals are skeptical the drug epidemic is improving.
In 2017, there were 87 drug overdose deaths, which dropped from 94 in 2016.
“These numbers are nothing to be proud of,” said Cambria County Coroner Jeff Lees. “I don’t want the people to lose sight of these numbers. These are human lives that were lost here in the county,” Lees said.
The victims ranged in age from 19 to 67-years-old and lived in 22 municipalities. Fentanyl played a role in 70 percent of the drug deaths. In 2016, two-thirds of the 94 total drug deaths involved fentanyl.
“I’d be happy if it was zero, but it’s great that it’s down. But that’s still way too high. It’s still an epidemic,” said Ira Hart, the West End Amublance Manager.
Lees said without Narcan in the hands of first responders, many others may have died.
“I believe if you take Narcan away, that number would be well over 130,” said Lees.
First responders agree.
“From the way the numbers were growing over the last few years, I would have expected this year to be even higher,” Hart said.
Johnstown residents had mixed reactions about the trend.
“I think it’s outstanding,” said Robert Johnson, who’s lived in Johnstown for 13 years. “I think they’ve done a massive blitz in the sense of educating people. And I think people are really listening and taking heed to it.”
Crystal Fultz, another Johnstown resident, credits the seven lives saved to the use of Narcan.
“I would have to think that’s because of the use of Narcan now. I’ve not really seen anything to show that the drug epidemic has improved in the area, unfortunately,” Fultz said.
Fultz said everyone should use Narcan because it can save lives.
“If it was someone you loved, you would want them to have a second chance at life,” said Fultz.
Johnson, said that education will save more lives from drug addiction in the future.
“Now, it’s creeped in and I think it’s important that we continue to fight it.”
Hart and Lees emphasized the need for education and treatment.
“These are heart-wrenching losses for the families and we need to keep doing everything that we can to prevent these deaths from occurring,” Lees said.
First responders added that if anyone sees someone they suspect has overdosed on drugs, don’t hesitate and call 911 immediately. They recommend you use Narcan if you have it available. If not, you can perform CPR or chest compressions until first responders arrive.