Nitazene, a substance stronger than Fentanyl is surfacing in the unregulated drug supply in BC
Dr. Bonnie Henry, British Columbia’s provincial health officer, has issued the following statement about the end of respiratory illness season:
Starting Tuesday, April 8, 2025, free additional COVID-19 vaccines will be available to people in B.C., with a focus on those who are at higher risk of severe illness.
“While the peak of respiratory illnesses has passed, influenza, COVID-19 and RSV are still here, and we must continue to practise healthy habits to keep illnesses from spreading,” said Dr. Bonnie Henry, provincial health officer for British Columbia. “This is particularly important as spring break ends, a period when many people have been travelling. This is a reminder to stay home if you are sick, and if you need medical care, to call ahead so you can be seen safely.”
Northern Health has issued a drug advisory for the Northern Health region. A round white pill sold as “Oxycocet” has tested positive for isotonitazene.
Isotonitazene or "Nitazene" is a synthetic opioid that is equal or more toxic than fentanyl and is not detected on fentanyl test strips.
Fraser Health is warning the public about the health risks associated with unauthorized Ayurvedic medicine sold by All in One Wholesale Cash and Carry in Surrey.
Drug poisionings are increasing in Greater Victoria. Friends, family and community members using unregulated substances face increased risk.
Two new cases of measles infection have been confirmed in the Lower Mainland in addition to a measles case identified earlier this week. Fraser Health has determined all three infections were acquired by Fraser Health residents who travelled abroad to Southeast Asia in the same travel party. These cases are unrelated to the previous case identified in February 2025.
A new case of measles infection has been confirmed in the Lower Mainland. Fraser Health has determined the infection was acquired by a Fraser Health resident who travelled abroad to Southeast Asia. This case is unrelated to the previous case identified in February 2025.
Several samples sold as Fentanyl in the Fraser Health region tested positive for high levels of Carfentanil. These samples varied in color and texture.