Norton Opioid Deaths: 6 In 2016

NORTON, MA — The opioid epidemic has infected nearly every corner of Massachusetts — including Norton. In 2016, there were six opioid overdose deaths in Norton, according to latest figures released by the Massachusetts Department of Public Health this week. Statewide, there were 1,933 opioid deaths in 2016, a 16 percent increase from 2015.

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The data provided a clearer view of the damage caused last year by narcotics that have garnered the attention of lawmakers and strained the capacity of the health system. Public Health Commissioner Monica Bharel said that the number opioid deaths in the first quarter of 2017 appears to be "about the same" as the same period one year ago.

"This enhanced level of data collection is a critical resource to help the administration, public safety officials and health care professionals understand the destructive impact of opioid-related overdoses in every corner of the Commonwealth," said Governor Charlie Baker in a statement. "We will continue to monitor trends and respond through targeted prevention, treatment and recovery services to break the negative momentum of this crisis."

The 2016 statistics could rise, as the the state medical examiner is still evaluating drug-related deaths.

Norton Opioid Deaths

• 2016: 6
• 2015: 1
• 2014: 5
• 2013: 4
• 2012: 4

Source: "Opioid-Related Overdose Deaths" by Massachusetts Department of Public Health, May 2016

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• Massachusetts Opioid Deaths 2016: Nearly 2,000, DPH Says
• Massachusetts Opioid Deaths 2016: Department of Public Health Full Report

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Mike Carraggi (Patch National Staff) contributed to this report