Syracuse, N.Y. — Onondaga County officials reported Thursday that 25 overdoses happened in the county within 24 hours.
The overdoses were all opioid-related, according to a news release from the Onondaga County Health Department.
Officials did not say if any of them were fatal overdoses.
Health department officials said the sharp jump was possibly linked to synthetic marijuana, known also as spike, that was laced with fentanyl, the drug that is 50 to 100 times stronger than heroin.
Cocaine, Molly, MDMA and other illicit drugs can also be laced with fentanyl, officials said.
County Health Commissioner Dr. Kathryn Anderson said the risk of fatal overdoses can decrease by spreading awareness of signs of overdose, calling 911 right away if someone is unresponsive and carrying narcan, a drug used to treat overdoses.
The Onondaga County Health Department provides free in-person or virtual training on reversing overdoses.
Staff writer Fernando Alba covers breaking news, crime and public safety. Have a tip, story idea, question or comment? Reach him: Email | Twitter or at 315-690-6950.