WINNEBAGO COUNTY, WI (WTAQ) — Fewer people died in Winnebago County from drug overdoses in 2022 than 2021, according to a new report from Winnebago County Public Health.
The Winnebago County Overdose Fatality Review (OFR) team released its 2022-2023 Annual Report. It summarizes local fatal overdose data, themes and recommendations for preventing overdoses in Winnebago County.
Thirty-seven overdose deaths were confirmed by the Winnebago County Medical Examiner’s Office in 2022, down from 41 overdose deaths in 2021.
The majority of the deaths occurred among individuals ages 25 to 54. Fentanyl was listed as a primary cause of death in 24 of the overdose deaths.
The OFR team identified the following major themes:
- Minors left behind due to overdose death lack support and access to vital services for children and families who experience trauma.
- Most victims who died of an overdose had a history of mental health disorders and did not receive the treatment services needed.
- A strong recovery community is critical to reduce the reoccurrence of use and counteract the shame and stigma many people experience.
- Touchpoints with prison or jail systems shortly before death were common. Increasing recovery services, peer support and transitional services would boost support upon release.
- Most victims died without Narcan and without anyone nearby. Mitigating potential dangers through harm reduction is vital.
- Many victims felt isolated and unsupported.
Based on those major themes, the OFR team is focusing on the following priorities for 2022-2023:
- Close gaps in communication between systems to strengthen the continuum of care.
- Identify children falling between gaps and connect them with care.
- Focus on preventative efforts.
“People are struggling and we, as a community, have to continue working to keep them alive,” said Jennifer Skolaski, facilitator of the Winnebago County OFR team.
This is the first year that Winnebago County has had overdose deaths reported in teenagers.
A bystander was present for at least seven of the overdose deaths in 2022. Several of these bystanders didn’t realize the victim was overdosing, because they were unaware the victim was using substances or they didn’t recognize the signs of overdose.
Xylazine has contributed to one overdose death in Winnebago County in 2021 and one death in 2022. Overdoses caused by this non-opioid sedative can not be reversed by naloxone, also known as NARCAN.
To read the the full Winnebago County Overdose Fatality Review annual report, click here.
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