As of March, nearly 3,100 New Yorkers have died from an overdose. That’s the most recent data compiled by the CDC.

The data shows the opioid crisis has gotten worse. Addiction is a disease. Is there enough being done to help those who suffer from it?

Erie County recently put out a radio ad to combat the crisis.

“It may seem like one small bump, but even occasional cocaine use can kill. Test your cocaine for fentanyl," the ad says.

There are test strips to check cocaine for fentanyl. This is one way officials are trying to help save lives.

According to the Erie County Health Department, 75% of overdose deaths in 2023 in Erie County were cocaine mixed with fentanyl. The county saw another record-breaking year of lives lost to the opioid crisis with 447 people who died last year. This year, there have been 236 deaths.

Recently, the health department started phase two of its Detect to Protect campaign. They’re taking a different approach, as user demographics are changing and so is what they’re using.

Cocaine is a rising issue with users in their 50s, 60s and 70s. The county hired a marketing firm to create a multimedia campaign that targets those most at risk.

“It's a Russian roulette," said Dr. Gale Burstein, commissioner of health for Erie County. "You don't know what you have unless you test. That's why it's really important that people [who] you think that they're using cocaine, it's still really important to test your cocaine for fentanyl. You never know what's in it because you're not buying this from somebody who cares about you and wants you to do well in life.”

Knowing there will always be those using, the county health department has issued some safe practice tips.

• Don’t use any drug alone. There’s a line you can call where someone will be on the other end checking in. If you stop responding, they will call 911.
• That is called Never Use Alone. Also, always have Narcan.
• If you feel like you’re ready to stop using, Dr. Burstein says go to the emergency room. They will give you the medication necessary to help with withdrawal as you start your addiction recovery journey.

You can also call the 24/7 HOPEline at 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369). Visiting oasas.ny.gov is another good option.