Fatal and non-fatal overdoses have increased in Snohomish County, mirroring recent trends from Washington State and the United States. Naloxone (brand name Narcan) is a lifesaving, opioid-overdose reversal drug. Increasing access to naloxone is a critical strategy in addressing the rise in overdoses. Fatal opioid overdoses in Snohomish County have increased 40% in the last three years from 137 in 2019 to 192 in 2021.

Snohomish County residents experience significant barriers to obtaining naloxone for a variety of reasons. These barriers are mainly due to challenges specific populations face when accessing naloxone, inconsistent naloxone availability through local pharmacies, and cost. 

There is currently no funding source in Snohomish County that provides naloxone to community-based organizations that interact with high-risk clients to keep in their public and shared spaces. However, just like an AED in a known location can be used in case of a heart attack, an on-site naloxone kit can be critical in reversing an overdose.

The Prevention Services Division is requesting $106,575 in flexible funding to support the following strategies to increase access to naloxone in the county:

Naloxone Distribution Through Pharmacy Partnerships

This supply of naloxone will be paired with the roll out of a fentanyl awareness campaign, so we anticipate that there will initially be a larger influx of interest in naloxone within the first six months.

Naloxone Distribution to Community Organizations/Businesses

This naloxone would be available for use in public spaces that are frequented by individuals at high risk of overdose.

Goal: Reach 15 organizations with one kit per site for maximum coverage (estimating that each organization will have 5 sites). Kits will last for three years before expiring.

Naloxone Distribution to Middle and High Schools

Supply one kit of naloxone to each middle and high school in the county. Kits will last for three years before expiring.

There is a possible vendor that would allow us to get naloxone for $65 per kit.

Consistent with Resolution 19-20 and the revised Division of Responsibilities (10/8/19), the Board of Health has authority over the Health District budget.

MOVE TO authorize the Administrative Officer to purchase naloxone for use in Snohomish County.