The Florida Department of Health is marking Fentanyl Awareness and Education Day, an initiative established after the passage of House Bill 259 by the Florida Legislature on May 23, 2025. The day aims to inform residents about the dangers of fentanyl and educate them on overdose prevention.
Fentanyl is a synthetic opioid that is significantly more potent than heroin and morphine. It is often found mixed with other street drugs or used to imitate prescription medications, making it difficult for users to detect its presence. This increases the risk of accidental overdoses among those who consume drugs not obtained directly from pharmacies or dispensaries.
The department notes that fentanyl remains a major public health threat in Florida, contributing to rising overdose rates across the state. In response, officials are working with partners at various levels to promote prevention efforts, expand access to naloxone—a medication that can reverse opioid overdoses—and provide educational resources.
“Lead with Empathy: Substance use disorder is complex and requires care, connection, and community for recovery. Encourage people to carry naloxone, seek resources for support, and connect with loved ones and peers to aid in their recovery.”
“Learn the Signs of Overdose and Carry Naloxone: Recent research has shown that access to naloxone does not increase the likelihood to use opioids like fentanyl.”
“Talk to Loved Ones About Substance Use Disorder: With more fentanyl in the drug supply, opioid overdoses and deaths have risen in recent years. Have regular, open, non-judgmental, and compassionate conversations with loved ones – even if not certain they are using.”
“Talk to your doctor about how to correctly take opioid prescriptions and ask about non-opioid medications for pain management, if you would like an alternative.”
Symptoms of an overdose may include small pupils, loss of consciousness or drowsiness, slow or weak breathing, choking sounds, cold skin, discoloration especially around lips or nails, and limpness.
If someone is suspected of overdosing on opioids such as fentanyl, health officials advise calling 911 immediately. Naloxone should be administered if available; individuals should be placed on their side while waiting for emergency services.
To further address this issue statewide, the department previously issued a public health alert in July 2022 urging vigilance regarding overdose symptoms. Residents can obtain free naloxone kits at County Health Departments along with additional support resources.
The Florida Department of Health holds national accreditation from the Public Health Accreditation Board and works through integrated efforts at state and local levels to protect public health.
For updates from the department follow @HealthyFla on Twitter or visit www.FloridaHealth.gov.
