SCDPH: Overdose deaths down in SC according to most recent data

Columbia, S.C. (WOLO)– Monday is National Overdose Awareness Day.
Each year, officials with the Department of Public Health, in 2024, the most recent data available, there were more than 1,481 overdose deaths in South Carolina, down more than 30%  from the previous year.
Officials credit the impact of expanded prevention and response efforts across the state.

“We’re encouraged to see overdose deaths declining, a sign that statewide prevention efforts are making a real difference, but even one life lost is too many,” said Dr. Brannon Traxler, acting DPH director. “DPH and its partners remain fully committed to prevention, treatment, and recovery initiatives that will help us build a safer, healthier future for everyone in South Carolina.”

In spite of the decline, officials say fentanyl continues to be the leading contributor to overdose deaths in the state.

Opioid Overdose (OD) Safety Kits are available at DPH health departments across the state at no cost. Each kit contains two doses of naloxone, five fentanyl test strips, five xylazine test strips, educational materials on how to use everything included and guidance for how to identify an opioid overdose. Kits are available in English and Spanish.