In a recent study conducted by the University of Vermont Medical Center (UVMMC), it has been discovered that the rise in blood infections at the center may be attributed to opioids contaminated with a powerful animal tranquilizer called xylazine. The tranquilizer causes severe skin wounds that are prone to infection, leading to potentially life-threatening conditions.

Monica Raymond, an infection preventionist at UVMMC, expressed her shock at the nature of the wounds she has observed, stating that some have been extensive, even reaching down to the bone. This prompted physicians at the medical center to investigate further, leading to the identification of group A strep infections, commonly referred to as GAS, in an increasing number of patients.

Analysis of the data revealed a significant correlation with the presence of xylazine. Two years ago, UVMMC physicians began noticing a higher influx of patients with necrotic flesh wounds, which resembled the effects of xylazine mixed with opioids. The Vermont Department of Health had already reported the emergence of xylazine in fatal opioid overdoses in the state in October 2021.

Between 2020 and 2021, there were seven identified cases of GAS infections at UVMMC. However, between 2022 and October 2023, the number skyrocketed to 64 cases, representing a staggering 900% increase. In this latter period, 70% of the infections occurred in individuals who reported injecting drugs, with the majority being unhoused. Xylazine exposure was self-reported or suspected in nearly half of these cases.

During a virtual press conference, Raymond shared her findings with a group of journalists, accompanied by Dr. Lindsay Smith, an infectious disease physician at UVMMC who had treated many of the affected patients. Dr. Smith noted that the rate of admissions for GAS infection appeared to be on par with previous years, emphasizing the ongoing issue.

Both Raymond and Smith highlighted the need for comprehensive solutions that address the root causes of homelessness and substance use. However, they also stressed the importance of providing support and resources to protect individuals who use drugs. This includes access to basic hygiene facilities and wound care, as well as the use of xylazine test strips as an essential tool.

Furthermore, it was revealed that half of the injection drug users diagnosed with GAS infections in the UVMMC study either declined hospital admission or left against medical advice before completing their antibiotic therapy. This illustrates the need to foster trust and comfort between healthcare providers and drug users, to encourage timely and comprehensive treatment.

Raymond emphasized that the study shed light on the numerous adverse outcomes of drug addiction beyond just overdoses. Bloodstream infections can quickly become life-threatening if left untreated, as demonstrated by two patients in the study who entered sepsis and eventually died due to multi-organ failure. Smith highlighted the urgency of seeking healthcare at an early stage of infection.

The UVMMC study serves as a stark reminder of the hidden dangers associated with drug addiction. It underlines the importance of not only addressing the opioid crisis, but also ensuring the well-being and safety of individuals suffering from addiction, particularly those who are unhoused.