In 2016, Erie County Executive Mark Poloncarz declared the opioid epidemic a public health crisis.
- In 2016 Erie County formed a task force to tackle the problem
- The number of deaths peaked in 2016
- 2019 has seen 49 opioid related deaths to date
"We are not seeing a reduction even though we've made tremendous efforts," said Poloncarz, (D), in 2016.
Fast forward to Monday, where he and others announced they've now seen that reduction in the number of opioid deaths across Erie County.
"I am not yet ready to declare the public health crisis over, but we do believe we see a light at the end of the tunnel," said Poloncarz.
The number of confirmed opioid related deaths so far this year stands at 49, with 41 other cases pending — compared to a little more than 100 in 2012 and 13, followed by dramatic increases topping out at 301 in 2016, before the steady decline.
"So, we have gone through the worst. There's no doubt about it. And we are headed definitely in the correct direction," said Poloncarz.
Leaders credit police and fire agencies trained to administer life-saving naloxone as a reason for the significant decline.
They also cite the success of collaborative prevention programs, additional clinics and medication assisted treatments.
"To help them get on the road to recovery and to stop the cravings and to really you know, stop their use," said Dr. Gale Burstein, Erie County health commissioner.
"We still have a lot of work to do. We need to further engage individuals in treatments, specifically medication assisted treatments. And we continue to have that information available through our addiction hotline," said Michael Ranney, Erie County commissioner of mental health.
Leaders also say the number of opioid-related prescriptions is on the decline.
That, as the county moves forward with a lawsuit against drug manufacturers, distributors and retailers to recover millions in out of pocket costs associated with the crisis.
"The plaintiffs, including Erie County in that case, are working collaboratively with the New York State Attorney General’s Office as well, which is also a plaintiff," said Michael Siragusa, Erie County attorney.
"Of course we'll be doing our own due diligence to make sure that can recover every penny we can on behalf of the county taxpayers," said Michelle Parker, Erie County attorney first assistant.
Poloncarz says despite the number of people who may still be facing addiction, the public health crisis could be declared over within the next year.
If you or someone you know needs help, call the Erie County Addiction Hotline at 716-831-7007.