Every year, the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) hosts National Prevention Day to highlight the critical role of prevention in reducing substance use disorders and promoting mental health. As communities across the country continue to combat the challenges of substance use, this annual event serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of education, early intervention, and community-based initiatives.
With overdose deaths on the rise and the increasing presence of substances like fentanyl and Xylazine, investing in prevention and harm reduction programs has never been more urgent.
Naloxone Distribution: A Lifeline for Communities
One of the most crucial interventions in the battle against opioid overdose deaths is the widespread distribution of Naloxone, a life-saving medication packaged in kits that reverses opioid overdoses, with each kit containing two doses of the medication.
Over the past year, Vaya Health has made substantial strides in distributing Naloxone to harm reduction agencies, outpatient treatment programs, detention centers, sheriff’s offices, EMS teams, and health departments in areas with limited access to opioid treatment. Since mid-2024, Vaya Health has distributed a staggering 44,664 doses of Naloxone.
Vaya’s most recent order of Naloxone, finalized in late January 2025, will ship 595 cases—totaling 14,280 doses—to various organizations across the 32 counties Vaya serves across North Carolina.
Fentanyl and Xylazine Test Strips: Proactively Addressing Emerging Threats
To further support harm reduction, Vaya Health is also helping to distribute fentanyl and Xylazine test strips. These test strips can detect the presence of fentanyl and Xylazine, a dangerous veterinary tranquilizer sometimes mixed with opioids. The presence of fentanyl—a potent synthetic opioid— and Xylazine, has contributed to a significant increase in overdose deaths, often complicating overdose reversal efforts.
With these additional tools, individuals and health care professionals can quickly identify if a substance contains fentanyl or Xylazine, reducing the risk of accidental overdose.
Prevention Day is more than an annual event—it’s a call to action for organizations, policymakers, and community members to prioritize prevention and expand access to life-saving resources. With continued investment in education, outreach, and harm reduction programs, communities can work together to reduce substance use disorders and promote a healthier, safer future.
By raising awareness and supporting organizations dedicated to prevention, we can all play a role in strengthening our communities and saving lives. Join the conversation this SAMHSA Prevention Day and help build a future where prevention is at the forefront of the fight against substance use.
For more information on how Vaya supports substance use recovery, visit Substance Use Recovery | Vaya Health.
