BC Overdose

• B.C. reports 275 drug deaths over 2 months, as fatalities continue downward trend

  The BC Coroners Service says overdose deaths have been trending downward in the province, with 275 people dying in February and March due to the toxic drug supply.

  May 14, 2025
  
• B.C. becomes first province to provide universal coverage for opioid treatments

  Health Minister Adrian Dix says in a news release that full coverage of the medications will be available to all B.C. residents with an active medical services plan.

  Health

  Jun 14, 2023
  
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• Red tape delays construction of Vancouver detox, social housing project approved 4 years ago

  The concerns come as the BC Coroners Service reports nearly seven people died per day of suspected illicit drug overdoses in January. 

  Health

  Mar 7, 2023
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• Toxic drug warning issued for Prince George, B.C. after ‘significant’ increase in overdoses

  A light blue substance, known as 'down,' is causing users to experience extended periods of sedation, lasting several hours after just one inhalation, the health authority said.

  Health

  Feb 11, 2023
• Nearly 1,500 drug deaths in B.C. this year, including 5.5 per day in August

  The coroners service in British Columbia says nearly 1,500 people have died this year from illicit drug use in the province.

  Health

  Sep 28, 2022
• B.C. toxic drug deaths double since 2016

  Grim statistics from British Columbia's coroner show the rate of toxic drug deaths has doubled since the province declared a public health emergency in 2016.

  Health

  Sep 15, 2022
• Kelowna, B.C. one-year-old who overdosed makes full recovery

  At least two children under the age of 10 have died of suspected illicit drug overdoses in the last two years, and this most recent case has spurred a warning to parents.

  Crime

  Sep 2, 2022
• Black balloons to honour Okanagan residents who died of overdose

  This acknowledgment, in which Interior Health hopes private businesses will also take part, is for all who have died and is a reflection of international Black Balloon Day.

  Health

  Apr 13, 2022
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• Advocates calling for safe drug supply amid deadliest year for overdoses in B.C.

  According to the B.C. Corners Service, 371 people died from a suspected overdose in the Interior Health region last year.

  Health

  Feb 9, 2022
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• ‘Everyone deserves a chance’: Vancouver mom shares two-decade addiction, recovery battle

  Victoria Heard's battle with drugs began nearly two decades ago at the age of 13. She's now hoping her story can inspire others and help break the stigma of addiction.

  Health

  Nov 5, 2021