Spike in Rensselaer County drug overdoses concerns leaders

There’s a health alert in Rensselaer County regarding the number of drug overdoses. There have been six overdose deaths in a matter of days, and 17 non-fatal overdoses.

The drugs involved appear to be cocaine and fentanyl, the county said.

Dr. Chinazo Cunningham – the commissioner of OASAS, the New York State Office of Addiction Services and Supports – said the agency is helping Rensselaer County.

There is also a helpline you can call: 1-(833)-467-3123, from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m., seven days a week.

Hear Cunningham talk about the dangers of the drug xylazine – and her fear that perhaps that’s playing a part in what’s going on – by watching the video of Subrina Dhammi’s story.