Fentanyl, a synthetic opioid linked to rising overdose rates, is surrounded by misinformation suggesting individuals can overdose from mere contact. This narrative has influenced public policy, redirecting opioid settlement funds for protective measures for first responders despite scant evidence of risk. Many cities have invested in drug detection technology, even as reports of officers getting sick from exposure seem exaggerated, likely stemming from anxiety rather than actual fentanyl effects. Recent statistics show a decline in fentanyl-related deaths, contradicting the pervasive myths.
False and misleading narratives on social media and in news reports suggest that people can overdose from touching fentanyl, influencing public policies and spending decisions.
Although fentanyl-related deaths have drastically risen, there's no evidence these deaths have resulted from incidental contact with fentanyl.
Reports of officers falling ill from touching fentanyl are often exaggerated, with symptoms likely arising from anxiety rather than the substance itself.
Despite a steady flow of misinformation, recent data indicates that fentanyl-related deaths have begun to decline.
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