Overdose trends continue in Sussex, Kent counties

LEWES — Though the number of suspected overdoses coming in to Beebe Healthcare’s emergency room has abated somewhat, overall numbers in Sussex and Kent counties rose over the weekend.

“From April 26 through May 5, there have been 96 suspected overdoses and three fatalities suspected from overdose in Sussex County. In Kent County, there have been 55 suspected overdoses and three fatalities suspected from overdose during the same time period,” said Tim Mastro, deputy director of communications for the state’s Department of Health and Social Services.

As of Friday, there had been 83 suspected overdoses in Sussex and 42 in Kent.

Beebe’s strategic communications manager, Ryan Marshall, said its hospital has witnessed a slight decline.

“We’re still seeing cases on a daily basis but not quite the number that was occurring before the (Wednesday) press conference,” he said.

That briefing, hosted by Beebe, had the goal of drawing attention to the influx of overdoses. Delaware State Police, as well as Health and Social Services, released a joint statement on the topic soon after.

Authorities have not yet confirmed what is in the drug mixture causing the high number of incidents. Initial samples showed packets containing xylazine, bromazolam, fentanyl, quinine and caffeine.

Xylazine is a tranquilizer used on horses, cattle and other mammals for its sedative properties, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. It is commonly mixed with street opiates but not approved for human use.

Bromazolam is a “designer” drug first synthesized in 1976 but never approved for therapeutic use. It is a benzodiazepine and used for its sedative and antianxiety features.

Fentanyl is a synthetic opioid implicated in more than 112,000 overdose deaths in 2023, the CDC reported.

Both quinine, an ingredient in tonic water that is used to treat malaria, and caffeine are commonly used to dilute or cut more concentrated drugs.

“Delaware Health and Social Services and Delaware State Police urge the public to exercise extreme caution, refrain from consuming unknown substances and avoid illegal drugs altogether. Individuals struggling with substance abuse are encouraged to seek immediate assistance from medical professionals or addiction support services,” Mr. Mastro said.

Beebe Healthcare has distributed more than 1,100 naloxone recovery kits since the surge began, Mr. Marshall added.