Burke County Overdose Spike: Contaminated Drugs Feared

Burke County is facing a critical surge in overdose incidents, prompting local leaders to issue urgent warnings. Officials suspect a contaminated drug supply may be responsible for the dramatic increase in cases and suspected fatalities. The crisis has deeply affected families, with one father sharing the devastating loss of his daughter, Jessica, who died two weeks prior, with fentanyl found nearby.

In an effort to combat the rising toll, Burke County Emergency Services reports responding to an average of one overdose call daily. Last year alone, 24 deaths were recorded. Recognizing the immediate need for intervention, free Narcan, a life-saving opioid overdose reversal medication, is now accessible through a public vending machine located at Catawba Valley Healthcare in Valdese, providing critical aid to those affected.