It’s National Fentanyl Prevention & Awareness Day, observed each year on August 21 as a grassroots effort to remember lives lost & elevate public understanding of this devastating crisis.
Fentanyl remains the leading cause of fatal OD’s in the U.S., even in tiny amounts. A preliminary CDC report from August marks approximately 77,600 overdose deaths in the year ending March 2025, though that reflects a positive trend: a 25% drop compared to the same period the previous year . That’s encouraging, but this day reminds us there’s still work ahead.
Let’s Talk Myths (& the Real Truths)
You’ve probably heard many rumors that touching fentanyl, even unintentionally, can be fatal. That myth is all too common & false.
Myth: You can overdose just by touching fentanyl. Truth: Casual skin contact, like touching a surface or a bill, is almost never harmful. Studies & health experts, including UC Davis Health, confirm that “you can’t OD on fentanyl by touching a doorknob or dollar bill.” The Oregon Health Authority adds there have been no confirmed OD’s from casual or secondhand exposure. Another myth was fueled by misinterpretations of a 2016 DEA advisory, suggesting touching or inhaling fentanyl could be extremely dangerous. In reality, later clarifications from expert toxicology societies, including the American College of Medical Toxicology, have stated that incidental exposure from touching or brief inhalation is so unlikely to cause OD as to be virtually impossible. Still, accidents can happen, especially with fentanyl patches, which are specifically made to release medication through the skin over hours, under prescription. These patches can be dangerous if handled or stored incorrectly, especially around children.
Myth: Fentanyl-laced cannabis- that’s it, that’s the myth. There’s absolutely no credible evidence that fentanyl is slipping into the cannabis supply or that you can absorb it just by being near it. The real danger lies in counterfeit pills that mimic safe medications or illicit drugs like cocaine, meth, or heroin, but actually contain fentanyl. Since fentanyl has no color, smell, or taste, it’s nearly impossible to tell unless you use test strips. Even then, they’re not guaranteed to always be accurate.
What We Can Do—and Why It Matters
– Get naloxone (Narcan) & keep it accessible, whether for yourself or someone you love. It’s a proven life-saving tool.
– Use fentanyl test strips if there’s any risk of exposure. Remember, they’re not perfect, but better than nothing & they can save lives.
– Never take pills that aren’t from a licensed pharmacy or prescribed to you. Illicit pills can be deadly.
– Spread accurate info. Days like today are powerful: not just for awareness, but for inviting folks to conversations about recovery, healing, & support.
So from me, & the rest of our team at the Grasonville Health Services – this day isn’t just about numbers or headlines. It’s about honoring every person & family grappling with this issue. If you or someone you know needs help, PLEASE reach out: whether it’s for medication-assisted treatment (MAT), naloxone, IOP, or just a listening ear.
You’re not alone. We’re in this together.
GHS is open M-F 5:30am-12:30pm. No appointments needed.
