The Heroin Overdose Wave Continues...

WFMZ-TV in Allentown, Pennsylvania, has reported another overdose [4] from the fentanyl-laced heroin batch that is ravaging drug injecting communities in cities around the nation. Meanwhile, officials in South Jersey are trying to figure out what is causing the rash of overdoses in Vineland and are wondering if something may be contaminating the heroin supply there -- five people had to be rushed to the South Jersey Healthcare Regional Medical Center on Tuesday [5], according to The Press of Atlantic City. We need legalization! Heroin use can't be stopped, at least not in this way -- only a legal, regulated supply will allow for any reliable degree of control over the drug supply -- until prohibition is ended, drug users will always be at risk of this kind of often fatal harm, especially the addicted ones. It is indecent that we are subjecting these people to this kind of situation -- and it certainly means longer emergency room waits when the rest of us need the help. WMFZ-TV accepts comments here [6]. The Press has information on submitting a letter to the editor, or a longer guest column, online here [7]. Also click here [8] to take action to support of a bill sponsored by Sen. Richard Durbin (D-IL) to fund overdose prevention. And click here [9] for a Drug War Chronicle report on the heroin/fentanyl overdose outbreak.