MS Department of Health receives grant from CDC for overdose prevention

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has awarded about $279 million to 49 states, the District of Columbia, and 40 local health departments. This is being done to stop overdoses in these communities.

The Mississippi State Department of Health was awarded over $2 million. The resources come from two new overdose data to action funding opportunities and fill a longstanding gap in funding for local communities by supporting city, county, and territorial health departments.

The funds will help states and communities respond more quickly, effectively, and equitably to prevent overdose death and injury.

The continued threats from illegal fentanyl and other synthetic opioids, a rise in stimulant use and the use of multiple drugs at one time are making substances deadlier than ever.

The announcement comes on International Overdose Awareness Day, a day to remember and grieve those lost to overdose and to spread awareness about prevention.