BILLINGS, Mont. – Yellowstone County has reported six overdoses in the past three days, including one fatality, sparking concerns over suspected opioid use. Authorities urge residents to carry Narcan and call 911 if an overdose is suspected.
The overdoses were detected through ODMAP, an overdose tracking system. RiverStone Health, in partnership with Billings Police, emergency services, and the Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services (DPHHS), is monitoring these trends to identify spikes and prevent further incidents.
“Naloxone, or Narcan, was administered in five cases,” said Taylor Cook, an epidemiologist with RiverStone Health. “This tool helps us track overdoses in Yellowstone County and respond quickly to prevent unnecessary deaths.”
Narcan, an over-the-counter medication that reverses opioid overdoses, is available at most pharmacies and through mail services like NextDistro. More locations can be found at StopOverdose.
Montana’s Good Samaritan laws protect individuals who assist in overdose situations, reinforcing the importance of calling 911 immediately.
For Narcan availability, contact RiverStone Health Pharmacy at (406) 247-3330 (Monday–Friday, 8:30 a.m. – 5:30 p.m.). Free fentanyl test strips can be obtained at Largest Heart.
