WNC News — September 3, 2026: Buncombe County Government has released updated public health figures revealing significant declines in both fatal overdoses and emergency room encounters, marking a measurable turning point in Western North Carolina’s response to the opioid crisis.
WNC News — September 3, 2026: Buncombe County Government has released updated public health figures revealing significant declines in both fatal overdoses and emergency room encounters, marking a measurable turning point in Western North Carolina’s response to the opioid crisis. The release, tied to International Overdose Awareness Day observations, highlights the impact of multi-year community health initiatives funded largely through the National Opioid Settlement.
According to official county records, local overdose deaths dropped by 46% between their peak in 2022 and projected 2025 numbers, while emergency department visits related to overdoses fell by 32% over the same period…