In a bid to fight the dangers of opioid addiction, this pharmaceutical company is giving away thousands of free overdose reversal kits to libraries, YMCA centers, and educational institutions across the country.
Emergent BioSolutions recently bought out the company that is responsible for making Narcan, the only FDA-approved naloxone nasal spray that can reverse opioid overdoses. Earlier this week, they announced that they would be attempting to protect American youth by giving away free Narcan kits to all 16,568 public libraries and 2,700 YMCAs.
The company has already been working through their Narcan in Schools program to distribute their kits to every US high school, as well as colleges and universities that grant two and four-year degrees.
“These two programs reflect our commitment to educating the public about the potential risks of opioids and the critical role of naloxone during an opioid overdose emergency and reinforce our mission – to protect and enhance life,” said Emergent Senior Vice President Doug White in a statement.
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In addition to giving away the lifesaving drug kits, the company will provide educational materials and training on opioid awareness to school nurses, librarians, and other community leaders.
“Public libraries are at the heart of every U.S. community and collaborate each day with partners to address critical local needs,” said Michelle Jeske, Denver Public Library City Librarian and member of the Public Library Association Board.
“During the current opioid crisis, libraries are working with other public agencies to identify and share vital information and resources, host community forums, and provide staff trainings to respond to overdoses,” she added. “This is one step of a long journey toward lasting community-based solutions.”
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