In Clark County, the presence of a deadly drug called xylazine, commonly known as "tranq," has nearly doubled in the area's drug supply since November, according to the data revealed by Columbia River Mental Health Services. This worrying trend suggests that approximately 10 percent of the illicit fentanyl found in Clark County is now laced with xylazine, a veterinary tranquilizer. Dr. Kevin Fischer, the Chief Medical Officer at Columbia River Mental Health Services, warns that this prevalence of xylazine is becoming the new norm and is likely to increase further over time.

The use of xylazine in illicit substances, particularly fentanyl, has been on the rise across the country. Cities like Philadelphia have experienced a significant influx of fentanyl mixed with this dangerous sedative, resulting in severe health consequences for those who consume it. The situation is no different in Clark County, where individuals like Paul Hunter are grappling with the devastating impact of this deadly combination.

Paul Hunter, who struggles with addiction to fentanyl, has been battling deep wounds that developed from the drug's likely mixture with xylazine. His legs are severely affected, with the skin along his calves and ankles deteriorating rapidly. While his wounds cause immense pain, Hunter finds himself trapped in a cycle of addiction, as quitting fentanyl results in brutal withdrawal symptoms that render him unable to perform everyday tasks. The consequences of not smoking fentanyl leave him incapacitated and increasingly reliant on the drug. As a result, his wounds worsen, leading to a dangerous risk of sepsis and even death.

Recognizing the signs of an overdose involving opioids and xylazine is crucial to saving lives. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has identified symptoms such as pinpoint pupils, loss of consciousness, shallow breathing, choking sounds, and pale, blue or cold skin as indicators of an overdose. The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) advises individuals to take immediate action by calling 911 and ensuring they remain on the phone until emergency responders arrive.

The administration recommends administering naloxone, a drug that can reverse the effects of an opioid overdose. However, it is important to note that naloxone may not immediately counteract the impact of xylazine if it is involved. Rescue breaths and chest compressions are also essential, especially for xylazine-related overdoses since the tranquilizer slows down breathing. Furthermore, if the first dose of naloxone does not take effect within two to three minutes, additional doses may be necessary.

Dr. Fischer emphasizes the urgency of addressing the growing presence of xylazine in Clark County's drug supply. Illicit xylazine is not approved for human use by the Food and Drug Administration due to its dangerous side effects, including tissue degradation. Its addition to fentanyl, however, extends the drug's effects, contributing to its popularity among dealers. The increasing prevalence of xylazine not only poses a threat to the well-being of those struggling with addiction but also strains local healthcare resources. Dr. Fischer warns that as this crisis expands, hospitals may face challenges in accommodating the complex and lengthy hospital stays required to treat xylazine-related wounds.

To combat this crisis, Clark County Public Health aims to raise awareness by distributing informational handouts to community members and organizations assisting individuals with substance use disorders. Additionally, the department plans to distribute fentanyl and xylazine test strips in collaboration with the Washington State Department of Health.

While efforts are being made to mitigate the impact of xylazine-laced fentanyl, individuals like Paul Hunter face an uncertain future. Mobile health teams, such as Columbia River Mobile Health, provide essential medical care to those living on the streets and treated Hunter's increasingly severe wounds. Hunter, who has experienced periods of homelessness since his youth, dreams of a better life, one that includes stable housing and a return to his carpet-laying profession.

The surge in tranq-laced fentanyl poses a grave threat to public health in Clark County. As the prevalence of xylazine continues to rise, it is imperative that communities and authorities work collectively to address this crisis through education, prevention, and accessible support services.