’An Epidemic Within This Pandemic’: Reported Drug Overdoses Rise In Georgia Amid COVID-19, Groups Say

Monday’s special edition of “Closer Look” focuses on the reported rise in overdoses during the COVID-19 pandemic in Georgia and nationwide.

Patrick Sison / Associated Press file

Aug. 31 is International Overdose Awareness Day — a date when advocacy groups worldwide aim to raise awareness and reduce the stigma of seeking help for addiction.

In Georgia, state and local advocacy groups say this date comes as the number of reported overdoses is rising amid the COVID-19 pandemic.

In a published memo June 19, Dr. Kathleen Toomey, commissioner of Georgia’s Department of Public Health, noted a rise in drug overdose-involved emergency room visits throughout the state.