A surge in overdose deaths in Kenosha County has led a community nonprofit to offer free test strips to check for the drug.
Following overdose deaths involving xylazine, the Kenosha-based Hope Council on Alcohol & Other Drug Abuse has announced the availability of free xylazine test strips.
Xylazine, also known as “tranq,” is a non-opioid veterinary tranquilizer which acts as a central nervous system depressant causing drowsiness and amnesia, and slows breathing, heart rate, and blood pressure to dangerously low levels. Taking opioids in combination with xylazine and other central nervous system depressants like alcohol or benzodiazepines increases the risk of life-threatening overdose.
"The introduction of xylazine test strips aligns with our efforts to provide innovative solutions to address the evolving challenges of substance misuse in our community," said Michelle Sandberg, Hope Council executive director. "We are committed to empowering individuals with the resources they need to make informed choices about their health and safety."
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Kenosha County Medical Examiner Patrice Hall confirmed the rise in xylazine-related overdose deaths.
"Recently, we’ve seen a substantial increase in xylazine found in overdose deaths throughout the country. Kenosha County has 14 confirmed xylazine deaths for 2023, with some cases still pending and the number likely to increase," she said.
Hall further emphasized, "It’s worth noting that xylazine was not found by itself in any of these cases. It’s being mixed with a variety of substances, including cocaine, fentanyl, morphine, methamphetamine, and more."
“Test strips are a crucial tool in the ongoing efforts to combat substance misuse. We believe that by offering access to these supplies, we can play a significant role in saving lives and preventing further tragedies in our community," Sandberg said.
Narcan, xylazine and fentanyl test strips, Deterra drug deactivation kits along with other community health supplies are available 24/7 from a free public health vending machine located outside of the Hope Council office at 6103 39th Ave.
For more information, contact the Hope Council at 262-658-8166, or check the council's Facebook page @HopeCouncilonAODA to see photos of the vending machine and supplies available.
