Overdose deaths in North Carolina increased by 40% in 2020 and continue to be on the rise. The state Department of Health and Human Services announced the data Monday. It counted more than 3,300 deaths from overdoses — that’s roughly nine per day. That’s also nearly 1,000 more deaths than in 2019. A full tally of overdose deaths in 2021 is not complete, but preliminary data shows a continued increase. More than 70% of fatal overdoses in 2020 involved fentanyl, an illicit opioid. State officials say the data in North Carolina mirrors national trends.
© 2024 Public Radio East
Public Radio For Eastern North Carolina
89.3 WTEB New Bern 88.5 WZNB New Bern 91.5 WBJD Atlantic Beach
90.3 WKNS Kinston 88.5 WHYC Swan Quarter 89.9 W210CF Greenville
Play Live Radio
Next Up:
0:00
0:00
Available On Air Stations