The Florida Department of Health is marking Fentanyl Awareness and Education Day, following the passage of House Bill 259 by the Florida Legislature on May 23, 2025. This legislation established the observance to increase public understanding of fentanyl’s dangers and the risk of overdose.
Fentanyl is a synthetic opioid with effects much stronger than heroin or morphine. It is often present in illegal drugs such as heroin, cocaine, methamphetamine, and marijuana. Drug dealers may also use fentanyl to imitate prescription medications like Percocet, OxyContin, Xanax, and Adderall. Because it cannot be detected by sight, taste, or smell, users may unknowingly consume fentanyl and face a high risk of fatal overdose.
The department reports that fentanyl remains a significant threat across Florida communities and contributes to rising overdose rates statewide. In response to this issue, the agency is working with state and local partners to improve prevention efforts, expand access to naloxone (Narcan), and provide education about how to respond to overdoses.
The department recommends several steps for preventing overdoses: showing empathy toward those with substance use disorder; encouraging people to carry naloxone; learning how to recognize signs of an overdose; having open conversations about substance use; and consulting doctors about alternatives to opioid prescriptions.
Recognizing an overdose can involve noticing symptoms such as small pupils, loss of consciousness, slow or weak breathing, choking sounds, cold skin, discolored lips or nails, or limpness. If someone appears to be overdosing, the department advises calling 911 immediately, administering naloxone if available, placing the person on their side to prevent choking, and keeping them awake until help arrives.
A public health alert was issued by the department on July 8, 2022 [https://www.floridahealth.gov/newsroom/2022/07/20220708-puha-alert.pr.html] warning Floridians about the signs of overdose. County Health Departments offer resources including free naloxone kits for residents seeking support.
The Florida Department of Health is accredited by the Public Health Accreditation Board and works through state and local partnerships to protect public health in Florida.
For more information about resources or educational materials related to fentanyl awareness in Florida visit www.FloridaHealth.gov.
