The national landscape shows a slight decline in drug overdose deaths from July 2023 to July 2024, yet Colorado only experienced a 4.38% drop. Each life lost to overdose underscores the urgency behind prevention efforts. CU Boulder is stepping up by providing essential resources to combat this crisis, focusing on free naloxone and fentanyl test strips, distributed widely since legislative changes were enacted in 2022.
Within the CU Boulder campus, naloxone and fentanyl test strips are readily available in various locations, including Wardenburg Medical Center, the Recreation Center, and residence halls, among others. Moreover, naloxone has recently been added to Automated External Defibrillator (AED) stations in residence halls, further amplifying access to this critical life-saving resource.
Generosity fuels the expansion of CU Boulder’s overdose prevention initiatives. The university has benefitted from significant donations lately, notably from The Naloxone Project, which contributed 10,000 doses and led a distribution event. Additionally, End Overdose donated 2,000 naloxone doses and has engaged with students on overdose prevention training. Previous contributions also include 5,000 fentanyl test strips from Boulder County Public Health Work Program.
Kathryn Dailey, assistant vice chancellor of Health & Wellness Services, expressed gratitude for the community support, emphasising, “This support allows the university to continue expanding access to this critical resource.” Dr. Donald Stader from The Naloxone Project highlighted the importance of their partnership, stating, “Knowing the signs of an overdose and having naloxone on hand can save a life and give someone a second chance.”
As students embark on a new semester, CU Boulder encourages all to prioritise safety through free overdose prevention and response training, alongside various wellness services. The emphasis is on support and the assurance that help is always within reach for those in need.
Data shows a reduction in drug overdose deaths nationally, yet Colorado’s decline is modest. CU Boulder has championed overdose prevention since 2022, distributing free naloxone and fentanyl test strips across campus. Their efforts are supported by generous donations from various organisations, ensuring wide access to these life-saving resources. Leadership at CU underscores the importance of education and awareness to prevent fatalities.
CU Boulder is committed to combatting the overdose crisis through effective distribution of naloxone and fentanyl test strips, highlighting the importance of community support in saving lives. With generous donations fueling their efforts and an emphasis on education and awareness, the university seeks to equip its students with the means to prevent overdose tragedies. Everyone is encouraged to take advantage of the resources and training available to enhance campus safety.
Original Source: www.colorado.edu
