As part of National Recovery Month, Virginia Tech is making efforts to raise awareness about the availability of free Narcan on campus. With a total of 93 kits distributed across dorms and common areas, the university ensures that these life-saving kits are easily accessible to anyone in need.
Impact of Opioid Use
Ashley LeDuc, associate director of Hokie Wellness, has witnessed the effects of opioid use firsthand. She highlighted the widespread impact of opioid use on students, whether through personal experiences or within their communities.
Providing Free Narcan
Hokie Wellness, dedicated to enhancing the quality of life on campus, has made providing free Narcan one of its top priorities. LeDuc mentioned that Narcan has already been utilized in various instances on campus, underscoring its importance in critical situations.
Access to Naloxone
In case of emergencies, students can locate ONEboxes next to AED units spread throughout the campus, each containing two doses of naloxone. These boxes come equipped with instructional videos and written guides in both English and Spanish to assist users.
Reducing Stigma
Part of this initiative is aimed at reducing the stigma surrounding substance use disorders. By making naloxone readily available, the university hopes to encourage open discussions and break the ice on this critical issue.
Empowering Students
Statistics from the CDC reveal that in over 2,000 cases of teen overdose deaths from July 2019 to December 2021, bystanders were present in two-thirds of the instances. This underscores the vital role naloxone plays in saving lives during emergencies.
Being Prepared
LeDuc emphasized the importance of preparedness, stating, 'You never know when an emergency will arise. We want our students to feel empowered and ready to handle any situation that comes their way.' With the distribution of free Narcan kits, Virginia Tech is taking proactive steps to combat the opioid crisis and ensure the safety and well-being of its campus community.