Fentanyl Awareness

Dear Newport-Mesa Families, Several state agencies have issued warnings about the opioid fentanyl, or rainbow fentanyl, which comes in bright colors and looks like candy. Fentanyl can be found in many forms, including pills, powder and blocks that can resemble sidewalk chalk or candy. The drug is reportedly being transported in a variety of ways, including candy bags, candy boxes, and toy containers. According to the , fentanyl is approximately 50 times stronger than heroin and 100 times more powerful than morphine. Even one pill can have fatal consequences. The CDC says fentanyl and other synthetic opioids cause most overdose deaths in the country. While these drugs generally have no tell-tale tastes, smells or visual indicators, there are signs associated with opioid overdoses. Signs include: Small, constricted “pinpoint pupils” Falling asleep or losing consciousness Slow, weak or no breathing Choking or gurgling sounds Limp body Cold and/or clammy skin Discolored skin (especially in lips and nails) Many who overdose on fentanyl believe they are taking something to help ease anxiety and are not aware of the presence or risk of fentanyl. When someone is experiencing a fentanyl overdose, they might experience dizziness, weakness of the muscles, slow and shallow breathing and unconsciousness. Our District is in the process of obtaining Naloxone, which is a life-saving medication that can reverse the effects of opioid overdose and save lives. We will remain vigilant about this at our schools and ask parents and guardians for their support in talking with their children about this recent trend, so that together we can continue to protect the health and safety of our students. With Halloween this month, families are reminded to check their child’s candy more thoroughly. We appreciate your ongoing partnership in keeping students safe.
Source: CDM High School New