HSE issues warning following cluster of heroin overdoses in Dublin

In the meantime, they have issued advice to all homeless and addiction services, as well as people who use heroin.

They are now asking that people avoid buying from new sources, and avoid buying new batches as there is an increased risk at this moment in time.

HSE National Clinical Lead in Addiction Services Professor Eamon Keenan said: “We are aware of a number of overdoses occurring in Dublin City today relating to potential new sources of heroin. We are working closely with service providers, An Garda Síochána and the HSE National Drug Treatment Centre Laboratory to obtain as much information on this emerging situation.

We ask that people are extra cautious during this period while we identify what may be leading to overdoses. 

"We ask service providers to notify their service users who may be at increased risk and help support them to reduce harms during this time.

"We will update services and people who use drugs following analytical confirmation of samples obtained which will help clarify the situation. At present, this issue appears contained to the Dublin City area but we will continue to monitor and update as necessary.” The HSE is now encouraging drug users to be aware, and be extra vigilant at this time.

They have also urged people to not use alone. They recommend making a rescue plan and have said you should let someone know you are using, and where.

The HSE said people should test the dose, start low, and go very slow as there is an increased risk of overdose at this time.

They also recommend not using heroin with other drugs such methadone, benzodiazepines or alcohol.

If signs of overdose occur "don't be afraid to get medical help if someone is unwell."

For information, support and harm reduction go to drugs.ie. or contact the HSE Drug and Alcohol Helpline on 1800 459 459 or email helpline@hse.ie Monday to Friday 9:30am – 5:30pm.