The executive director of the Midwest High-Intensity Drug Trafficking Area, or H-I-D-T-A is warning about a new packaging for the deadly drug fentanyl. Daniel Neil told Radio Iowa it is fentanyl mixed with lidocaine, and then colored purple. He says the purple brings awareness to it as dealers try to get more people hooked, especially young people, trying to make it socially acceptable. Neil says you should be aware of the dangers of the purple fentanyl and be prepared to react with Narcan, which he says is now more available. Neil’s territory in Iowa covers Black Hawk, Marshall, and Polk and others.
This story from Radio Iowa.
This story has been updated with the following information;
The warning comes as the U.S. Senate recognizes Fentanyl Prevention and Awareness Day. Senate Judiciary Committee Chairman Chuck Grassley, Republican from New Hartford, led a bipartisan resolution designating today (Aug. 21), as the national day of awareness. Grassley said, “Too many families know the pain of losing a loved one to fentanyl. Fentanyl Prevention and Awareness Day demonstrates Congress’ continuing resolve to keep this public health crisis on the nation’s radar and put an end to our nation’s fentanyl epidemic, as well as underscore the importance of local awareness and prevention efforts.”
This story includes contributions from Radio Iowa and the office of Senator Chuck Grassley. You can view the full press release from Senator Grassley’s office online at https://www.judiciary.senate.gov/press/rep/releases/grassley-shaheen-highlight-fentanyl-prevention-and-awareness-day
