The Pettis County Health Center has received reports of increased overdoses and deaths related to the presence of mis-branded, illegal drugs in the county.

A press release says reports have indicated that symptoms shown by the victims are the same as those from an overdose of opioids.

The health center has free Naloxone (Narcan) available for community members who may be at risk for an overdose, as well as family and friends of those who are at risk. The agency provides a brief training program to demonstrate when and how to use the medication.

There is no record kept of the name of those who request the medication. The Naloxone is provided through the MORE project- a program of the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services.

To get the medication, you come to the health center, and ask to speak to a public-health staff member about Narcan. You do not have to provide your name.

The COVID-19 pandemic is creating a great deal of stress for many members of communities. There are resources to get help for a mental health crisis or a drug/alcohol issue.

For more information, contact Pettis County Health Center at (660) 827-1130.

The local phone number for Burrell Behavioral Health at 201 West 3rd Street to make an appointment for an evaluation is (660) 827-2494. The local phone number for Compass Health 1700 West Main for drug or alcohol issues is (660) 826-5885.

Listed are some resources that are available in Pettis County or via telephone or text.

Burrell Behavioral Health Emergency Line (800) 395-2132;
ACI (Access Crisis Intervention) (800) 356-5395;
Compass Health Emergency (800) 237-4567;
Royal Oaks Hospital (800) 456-2634;
National Alliance on Mental Health (800) 950-6264; and
Substance Abuse & Mental Health (SAMHSA) (800) 662-4357.