LCHD to host Narcan presentations at Tomahawk, Merrill libraries

LINCOLN COUNTY – Later this spring, the Lincoln County Health Department, in partnership with the Lincoln County Opioid Task Force, will host a pair of free, one-hour presentations for area adults on how to recognize and respond to a drug overdose using naloxone (Narcan) nasal spray.

In a release, LCHD said the events are being held “in an effort to inform, educate and encourage community members to be able to identify an opioid overdose and be willing to respond with Narcan nasal spray, possibly saving a life.”

“Narcan can’t do any good if it is not available for people when they need it,” said Deanna Engel, LCHD Public Health Nurse. “In Wisconsin, anyone who may have a need to use Narcan may carry it without a prescription. It is important for people in the community to know that Narcan is a rescue medication that may be legally carried and used by community members, if needed in an opioid overdose event.”

LCHD said having basic education on what Narcan nasal spray is and how it works goes a long way in building confidence to use it.

“Although training is not required to carry or administer Narcan, some basic instruction may be very helpful to most people,” LCHD stated.

The first presentation will be held at the T.B. Scott Free Library, 106 1^st St., Merrill, on Thursday, April 30 from 5 p.m. to 6 p.m.

The second presentation will be held at the Tomahawk Public Library, 300 W. Lincoln Ave., Tomahawk, on Thursday, May 14 from 5 p.m. to 6 p.m.

Each event will include time for questions.

For more information, contact Deanna Engel at deanna.engel@co.lincoln.wi.us or 715-539-1369.

To learn more about the Lincoln County Opioid Settlement Task Force, visit www.tinyurl.com/yc7k9dfx.