This article discusses substance abuse. If you or someone you know is struggling with addiction, you can call the Wisconsin Addiction Recovery Helpline at 211 for free, confidential, 24/7 support.

ROCK COUNTY, Wis. — There have been at least five drug overdoses connected to cocaine products laced with opioids from April 3 to 8, according to the Rock County Public Health Department (RCPHD).

RCPHD said that this spike in overdoses is above a normal rate. RCPHD said this may indicate “there may be very strong opioids or other drugs mixed in the local drug supply.”

RCPHD said if you know someone who uses drugs in the community to please alert them to safer use guidelines, as follows:

• Do not use alone or call the Never Use Alone Hotline: 1-800-484-3731
• Have Narcan nearby
• Use fentanyl test strips

Narcan, fentanyl test strips and other supplies are available at the Beloit Public Library, the Rock County Sheriff’s Office, HealthNet of Rock County Inc. and Vivent Health Wisconsin. Narcan, an opioid overdose reversal drug, can also be purchased at pharmacies. No prescription is necessary for Narcan.

Know the signs of an overdose: 

Know what to do if you think someone is experiencing an overdose: