A video with over 1.4 million views spread awareness about opioid overdose and the overdose reversal medication naloxone. Many commenters expressed stigmatizing attitudes toward people with opioid use disorder and argued against the use of naloxone. However, a few responses emphasized the importance of learning to spot the signs of an opioid overdose and how to administer naloxone. Another video shared to social media aimed to debunk the myth that touching fentanyl can cause an overdose. The video highlighted an August news story about a police officer who collapsed after touching what she believed to be fentanyl, but exhibited no signs of an overdose. Some commenters argued that the officer was overdosing and falsely claimed that touching fentanyl can cause an overdose.
Recommendation
In response to discussions about opioid overdose, communicators may recirculate the signs of an opioid overdose and reiterate that naloxone should be administered any time an overdose is suspected. Messaging may emphasize that naloxone will not harm someone who is not overdosing or is not overdosing on opioids. Explaining how to use naloxone and where to get it nearby is recommended. Communicators may also want to share information about local harm reduction programs that offer naloxone and other services. Debunking messaging may also emphasize that you cannot overdose on fentanyl by touching it.
Fact-checking sources: CDC, Public Good News
