In 2017, fentanyl contributed to 70% of all opioid overdose deaths, according to a report by Dr. Chikarlo Leak.
Fentanyl, a synthetic opioid 80 to 100 times more potent than morphine. The drug contributed to 59% of overdose deaths in 2017. As Americans continue to feel the affects of the opioid epidemic, emergency responders are on the front line every day, to deadly substances that can kill a human with a miniscule dose.
The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) recently released a video that shows emergency responders how to properly use personal protective equipment (PPE) to prevent occupational exposure to illicit drugs including fentanyl.
The video was created as a joint effort with the Fredericksburg, Va. police and fire departments.