Can you overdose from skin contact with fentanyl? Unlikely, here's why
In Milwaukee County, overdose drug deaths doubled from 2010 to 2020.
While drug overdose deaths remain on the rise, public health experts say deaths could be prevented if more people are aware of the symptoms of overdose and are properly trained in using Narcan, a medication to help reverse opioid overdose.
It's important to know that medical experts says it's nearly impossible to overdose from exposure to fentanyl from touching it because it can't be readily absorbed through the skin. Recent reports of deputies overdosing via exposure can create unnecessary anxiety and fear, said Courtney Geiger, Public Health Strategist at the City of Milwaukee Health Department.
"The fear is resulting in people being afraid to respond and assist when a person is actually overdosing," said Geiger.
Here's what you need to know about risks to fentanyl exposure:
What happened with the Milwaukee County Sheriff's Officers who were given narcan?
Two Milwaukee County Sheriff's Office deputies said they overdosed after exposure to fentanyl and other substances while performing two separate traffic stops on Aug. 25 and Aug. 27.
Deputy Andriean Williams and another 36-year-old deputy, who the Sheriff's Office won't name, say they experienced overdose symptoms and received Narcan by emergency responders.
In addition to these two incidents, one other first responder was administered Narcan during a task force operation in the past two years, said Milwaukee County Sheriff's Office Director of Public Affairs James Burnett.
While searching a crashed car at Wisconsin Highway 145 and North 76th Street last Friday, Williams touched a sweater and then became dizzy and unable to move.
He received a dose of Narcan from a responding sheriff's office supervisor and was taken to an area hospital. He recovered quickly and returned to work in the following days. The actual source of the health issue is under investigation, but Geiger said it's possible the first responders could have been suffering from a panic attack or a similar mental reaction caused by the fear of possible exposure to fentanyl.
Similarly, on Aug. 27 another deputy claimed she experienced overdose symptoms while at a traffic stop on I-43 and Walnut Street and received Narcan from emergency responders.
Can you overdose on fentanyl by touching it?
But you can't overdose from simply touching fentanyl, said Geiger. Fentanyl must be ingested through the nose or mouth in order to have an effect that could possibly result in an overdose.
The only way to confirm the deputies had a fentanyl exposure caused overdose is by testing their blood or urine for fentanyl. Test results on any potential substance from the traffic crash are still under investigation, said Burnett.
What is Narcan?
Narcan, also known as naloxone, is a medication that can help people who are overdosing on an opioid, such as prescription medications, heroin and fentanyl. The drug, which can be administered as a nasal spray, works by blocking the effects of opiates on the brain.
Narcan does not prevent deaths caused by other drugs, such as cocaine, methamphetamine, alcohol or other non-opioid related drugs like xylazine, an animal tranquilizer, said Geiger.
Narcan typically wears off in 30 to 90 minutes and the person overdosing can stop breathing unless more Narcan is given. For that reason, it's recommended to call 911 to transport the person for medical care.
What are the symptoms of a fentanyl overdose?
Overdose drug deaths doubled in Milwaukee County from 2010 to 2020. Overdoses with opioid-related drugs with drugs like fentanyl, accounted for 80% of all fatal overdoses in Milwaukee County in 2021 and 2022.
If you suspect someone has overdosed, look for the following signs:
Breathing slowly or erratically, or not at all
Slow or erratic pulse, or without a pulse
Pale gray or blue skin color, especially discolored lips or fingernails
Unresponsive or unconsciousness
Choking or gurgling sounds
If you suspect someone you know has overdosed, call their name and if they don't respond call 911 right away and follow the directions of the 911 operator.
Start rescue breathing if the breathing of the person overdosing is slow or has stopped. Make sure their mouth is not blocked, pinch their nose and breathe into their mouth every five seconds. Continue for 30 seconds. Administer Narcan if you have it. Remove the Narcan from the package and put the tip in either nostril and press the plunger. Continue rescue breathing if their breath is slow or stopped.
Put the person overdosing on their side with their top leg and arm crossed over the body to prevent choking. Stay with the person until emergency services arrive.
RELATED: Drug overdose deaths in Milwaukee have doubled in the past decade. Here's how you can respond.
If you or someone you know is struggling with substance use disorder, here's where you can find help:
For those struggling with substance use disorder, and their friends and families, it can be difficult to reach out for support. There are programs in Milwaukee County and in Wisconsin that can provide help for recovery.
To find resources in Milwaukee County, call 211 or the Wisconsin Addiction Recovery Help Line at 833-944-4673. For Milwaukee locations to receive an evaluation and treatment, visit the health department's website for a list of facilities or call 414-257-8085.
If you need help with mental health or a substance abuse issue, the Milwaukee County Behavioral Health Division has a crisis line at 414-257-7222.
If you're a family member or friend looking for support, Nar- ANON, a local group, can provide resources.
To find resources in Ozaukee and Washington County, visit changetheend.com.
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This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: Why it's unlikely Milwaukee County deputies overdosed on fentanyl
