Opioid Related Deaths Increase in 2020

Howard County saw a 43% increase in opioid related deaths in 2020, compared to 2019, part of a national and statewide trend as the COVID-19 pandemic exacerbated opioid and substance misuse, according to information provided by Howard County Executive Calvin Ball.  

“Our community, like others, is suffering from the compounding of the coronavirus pandemic and the opioid epidemic, but there is hope,” said Grassroots Executive Director Dr. Mariana Izraelson.  “Howard County agencies are working together to save lives and restore the stability of families. Anyone that is experiencing a substance use disorder crisis is able to call the Grassroots 24-hour hotline, 410-531-6677, or walk in 24/7 and work with a multidisciplinary team.  Grassroots offers screening, assessment, brief intervention, counseling, nursing assessment, medical evaluation, medication assisted therapy with buprenophine and referral to treatment.”


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