Nonfatal Drug Overdose Alert Issued Across 17 Kentucky Counties

LEXINGTON, Ky. — Health officials have issued a nonfatal drug overdose alert across 17 counties in Central Kentucky, warning residents after hospitals reported a significant spike in emergency visits linked to overdoses.

Surge in Overdose Cases

According to the Kentucky Department for Public Health (DPH), since Sept. 11, hospitals in the region have recorded 67 suspected nonfatal overdose-related emergency visits. Officials described the figure as “an unusually high number in this time period,” raising concerns about potentially dangerous batches of drugs circulating in communities.

Counties Under Alert

The overdose alert covers the following counties:

• Anderson, Bourbon, Boyle, Clark, Estill, Fayette, Franklin, Garrard, Harrison, Jessamine, Lincoln, Madison, Mercer, Nicholas, Powell, Scott, and Woodford.

These counties include both rural and urban areas in Central Kentucky, with Fayette County (home to Lexington) among those most affected.

Safety Guidance From Health Officials

The DPH is urging residents to take extra precautions during the alert, including:

• Carry naloxone: The life-saving medication can reverse opioid overdoses. Free naloxone kits and training are available at local health departments, syringe service programs, and through mail-order options.
• Never use drugs alone: Having someone nearby can prevent overdoses from turning fatal.
• Seek treatment and recovery resources: Services are available through FindHelpNowKY.org, by calling 1-833-859-4357 during business hours, or 1-800-854-6813 after hours.
• Check on loved ones: Families, neighbors, and friends are encouraged to share the alert and monitor at-risk individuals.
• Call 911 immediately if an overdose is suspected.

Community Response

Public health advocates stress that overdose spikes often signal a dangerous trend — such as fentanyl-laced drugs or a sudden change in supply quality. Kentucky’s statewide monitoring system issues alerts like this to help local agencies prepare emergency responses and equip communities with the resources needed to save lives.

The overdose surge is a stark reminder of the ongoing opioid crisis in Kentucky, where quick action and awareness can mean the difference between life and death. For more updates on health alerts and community resources, follow ChicagoMusicGuide.com.