Luzerne County Coroner releases 2023 overdose death data
WILKES-BARRE, LUZERNE COUNTY (WBRE/WYOU) — The heroin and opioid epidemic is the number one public health and safety challenge facing Pennsylvania, according to the attorney general.
An average of 14 Pennsylvanians die every day from overdose, and it’s a reality that hits home for many people in our area. Overdose deaths in Luzerne County have slightly decreased since 2022, but the epidemic continues to impact countless lives.
The Luzerne County Coroner says there were 143 overdose deaths in the county in 2023. The number could be higher if it were not for organizations like Wyoming Valley Drug and Alcohol Services.
“We probably see 40, 50 people a day here at this organization, and unfortunately a lot of people do have an opioid use disorder. We see overdoses on a consistent basis,” stated Jason Harlen, CEO of Wyoming Valley Alcohol and Drug Services Inc.
It provides critical resources and services to the community to help people combat substance use disorder. Fentanyl and other synthetic opioids have been driving the crisis in recent years, with the pandemic intensifying the public’s abuse of the drug.
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“We know how potent it is, we know how dangerous it is, we know how cheap it is now in a lot of cases, so this is wreaking havoc for all of us, whether you know somebody or you don’t, it’s wreaking havoc on all of us for some reason,” explained Harlen.
The situation has become a major foreign policy issue. U.S. Officials say illegal fentanyl supplies are largely produced in China and Mexico and then smuggled into the United States.
“Our clients tell us every day how easy it is to get it, so unfortunately when you have that accessibility, it creates a lot more problems,” said Harlen.
Harlan’s message is clear, “Anyone who needs help, we’re here for you.”
Help is available for those battling substance use disorder, and their loved ones.
To learn more about where you can reach out for help, head over to the Wyoming Valley Drug and Alcohol Services website and guides to help substance abuse disorder on the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania website.
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