SANTA FE – The New Mexico Department of Health reports an increase in overdose deaths and overdose-related emergency department visits during the first half of 2025 in three Northeast counties: Rio Arriba, Santa Fe, and Taos.
Drug overdose deaths increased in Rio Arriba County by 48%, in Santa Fe County by 104% and in Taos County by 340% compared to the same time last year. Drug overdose-related emergency department visits also increased by 81% in Rio Arriba County, 131% in Santa Fe County, and 206% in Taos County.
Fentanyl use is linked to the majority of fatalities. The New Mexico Department of Health (NMDOH) Adulterant Checking Program has detected higher concentrations of fentanyl in fentanyl products. While typical samples contain approximately 1% fentanyl, recently identified samples have contained as much as 20% fentanyl. This increase in potency may result in more fatal and non-fatal overdoses.
“Opioid use impacts people and communities across New Mexico,” said David Daniels, NMDOH’s harm reduction section manager. “We have contacted our partners in these counties to ensure they are raising awareness with their clients and reinforcing overdose prevention methods.”
NMDOH offers medications for opioid use disorder (MOUD) at all public health offices at no cost to the patient. Additional NMDOH resources include:
- Find a harm reduction site near you: The New Mexico HIV-Hepatitis-STD Online Resource Guide (nmhivguide.org)
- Order no-cost naloxone and learn how to use it: NMDOH Harm Reduction | Transforming Lives for Healthier Communities (nmharmreduction.org)
- Find a public health office offering MOUD: Home – New Mexico Pathways (pathwaysnm.org) or call the NMDOH Helpline at 1-833-796-8773.
For the most recent statewide overdose data, visit: www.nmhealth.org/data/view/substance/3129/
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