Houston Daily

Governor Greg Abbott has introduced an online interactive map developed by the Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS). This map, part of the "One Pill Kills" campaign, identifies locations where Texans can access Naloxone (NARCAN) for free or purchase it. The initiative aims to prevent fentanyl poisonings and save lives.

Governor Abbott emphasized the importance of this tool in combating the fentanyl crisis. "Texas’ statewide efforts to combat the fentanyl crisis have saved countless lives," he stated. He added that with this new map, Texans could easily locate NARCAN by entering an address or zip code. Abbott expressed gratitude to DSHS for their work on this tool, which is crucial in fighting the nationwide fentanyl crisis.

DSHS Commissioner Jennifer Shuford also commented on the initiative's significance. “This NARCAN locator map is another tool in our fight against fentanyl-related poisonings that have affected Americans in such a devastating way,” she said. The map will help health care providers, first responders, and the public have life-saving medication ready for opioid overdose emergencies.

The online map is maintained by DSHS’s Texas Overdose Data to Action (TODA) program and features a search bar for users to find nearby Naloxone locations based on their address or zip code. It provides details such as site type, hours, contact information, and more.

In cases of opioid poisoning like those caused by fentanyl, symptoms can include slowed or stopped breathing, unconsciousness, and other severe effects. Naloxone works by blocking opioids' effects in the brain and restoring normal breathing when administered during an emergency.

DSHS TODA collaborates with the Texas Health and Human Services Commission to keep NARCAN distribution locations updated on the map.

Governor Abbott continues his efforts against the fentanyl crisis through various initiatives:

- Launching a public awareness campaign called "One Pill Kills"

- Hosting summits to educate about fentanyl dangers

- Distributing Naloxone statewide

- Introducing a data dashboard on Texas fentanyl statistics

- Enacting laws enhancing penalties for fentanyl-related crimes

- Designating Mexican drug cartels as terrorist organizations

- Addressing the issue as an emergency item for legislative sessions

These actions aim to reduce fentanyl-related deaths and prosecute related offenses more effectively.