Howard County Offers Free Naloxone 24/7

Howard County is intensifying efforts to combat overdose deaths through expanded access to the overdose-reversing drug naloxone. In the past five years, the county has achieved a remarkable reduction in fatal overdoses, with a decrease of nearly 62%. This progress is supported by data showing a significant drop in recorded deaths.

To further bolster these initiatives, health officials recently installed two naloxone vending machines. These machines offer anonymous, round-the-clock access to crucial resources. Available items include naloxone, fentanyl test strips, and hygiene products, all provided free of charge.

The vending machines are strategically located to maximize accessibility. One is situated at the Grassroots Day Resource Center in Jessup, and the other at the Howard County Health Department in Columbia. These installations aim to break down barriers related to stigma and cost, ensuring essential life-saving medications are readily available.