Clark County launches Opioid Task Force amid rising overdose deaths

Clark County’s Opioid Task Force will hold its first meeting on Thursday.

In Southern Nevada, fentanyl is contributing to a staggering increase in overdose deaths, according to data from the Southern Nevada Health District.

From 2020 to 2023, there was a 97% increase in Clark County overdose deaths in cases where fentanyl was mixed with methamphetamine or cocaine, according to a recent health district report.

Over the next 12 months, the task force will review data on overdose deaths, aiming to tailor services to assist those with addiction better. Once their one-year term ends, the 15-member team will provide a report summarizing their work.

County Commissioner Marilyn Kirkpatrick is optimistic about the task force’s potential to assist families impacted by the opioid crisis.

“We all know the opioid pandemic is hurting thousands of families across Clark County, but I am hopeful this task force will not only look at prevention methods but also promote long-term recovery solutions,” Kirkpatrick said.

https://www.ktnv.com/news/clark-county-launches-opioid-task-force-amid-rising-overdose-deaths