Central Nova News

The City of Alexandria will acknowledge National Fentanyl Awareness Day on April 29 by distributing Opioid Harm Reduction Bags throughout the community. The initiative aims to highlight the dangers of fentanyl-laced illicit drugs and offer resources for saving lives. The harm reduction bags contain naloxone, a nasal spray that can reverse opioid overdoses, test strips to detect the presence of fentanyl or xylazine, and educational materials alongside community resources for prevention, treatment, and harm reduction.

Community members are encouraged to pick up these resources from April 26 through May 2 at designated locations across the city. Information on times and places where the bags can be collected is available on the city’s website, alexandriava.gov/Opioids. The supplies are provided at no cost and aim to support and save lives without judgment.

The ongoing rise in overdoses is fueled by fentanyl found in counterfeit pills, often masquerading as medications like Oxycodone, Percocet, or Xanax. Alexandria residents can help prevent medication misuse by taking prescribed medications, educating others about the dangers of fentanyl, discussing substance use risks with youth using conversation guides, disposing of unused medications safely, securing medicines with free locking boxes, and obtaining free Naloxone for emergency overdose responses.

Alexandria's Department of Community and Human Services offers treatment assistance for those dealing with substance misuse. Residents can call 703.746.3636 (Virginia Relay 711) for support, or 703.746.3610 for help with opioid addiction. In cases of suspected overdoses, calling 911 is advised. Further information can also be found at alexandriava.gov/Opioids, and for preventing youth substance misuse, alexandriava.gov/SAPCA.

For disability accommodations, contact Christina Damhuis at christina.damhuis@alexandriava.gov or 703.746.5694. Virginia Relay is available at 711.