Supervised injection sites have reversed 9 overdoses since opening in New York City, says Mayor Bill de Blasio

NEW YORK CITY (WABC) – It has been less than a week since New York City opened its first supervised injection sites, and the mayor says many lives have already been saved.

Mayor Bill de Blasio said overdose prevention centers had already reversed 9 overdoses in just a few days.

“Just a week ago these lives would probably have been lost. Compassion. Watch out. It takes real work to end this crisis, and our city is ready to lead the way,” said the mayor’s office. Blasio.

Two sites opened on Tuesday, one in East Harlem and the other in Washington Heights.

The mayor says workers stepped in as overdoses were occurring.

The drug injection centers are the first of their kind in the country.

Overdose prevention centers have been shown to reduce overdose deaths and successfully treat drug addiction, according to studies in Europe and Canada.

Experts say the sites also improve the overall safety of the communities in which they are located by reducing public drug use and needle waste.

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If you or someone you know has a drug addiction, contact Office of Addiction Services and Supports via the website, by calling the HOPE 24/7 line at 1-877-8-HOPENY, or by texting 467369.

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