Keeping Alaskans' Safe - Governor Dunleavy Addresses Fentanyl Crisis in Alaska

In a press release on May 3, Governor Dunleavy and healthcare officials addressed the fentanyl crisis we are experiencing in our nation and more specifically in Alaska.  From 2020 to 2021, the number of drug overdose deaths in our state increased an astounding 71% with over half of those deaths involving the synthetic opiate fentanyl. Fentanyl is 50x stronger than heroin and 100X stronger than morphine and it is in our communities.  It can be manufactured illegally and then added to other substances such as heroin, methamphetamines, cocaine, or other illicit substances. Most people are not even aware they may be taking a pill laced with fentanyl as it does not have a taste or smell , but it can be deadly. Even the smallest trace of fentanyl is enough to cause an overdose: one pill can kill.  It can slow down your drive to breathe, make you unconscious, and stop your body from functioning…with just one pill.

Many are not aware of the danger of fentanyl and why it is a threat to safety. Please take a moment to read the Alaska state (alert bulletin) and share this information with nurses, teachers, and families. By educating widely about the existing concerns of this powerfully dangerous drug, we are taking a step forward in protecting Alaskans and their families.

If there are any questions about this topic or if you would like to have additional information presented to a specific group within your schools, please reach out to the Office of School Health & Safety at Schoolhealthandsafety@alaska.gov

School Health and Safety Team