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Alexandria will distribute free opioid harm-reduction bags from April 26 through May 2 as part of National Fentanyl Awareness Day on April 29.

The Opioid Work Group’s bags include naloxone nasal spray, which can reverse an opioid overdose, along with test strips that detect fentanyl or xylazine in substances. Educational materials and information about local prevention, treatment and harm-reduction services are also included.

Residents can pick up the bags at designated city locations. Distribution times and locations are available at alexandriava.gov/Opioids.

Fentanyl found in illicit drugs and counterfeit pills continues to contribute to overdoses nationwide. Counterfeit medications may be made to resemble prescription drugs such as Oxycodone, Percocet or Xanax.

Residents can reduce the risk of medication misuse by taking only medicine prescribed by a doctor or purchased from a pharmacy, discussing the dangers of counterfeit pills and street drugs, and using conversation guides to talk with young people about substance use.

Alexandria also encourages residents to dispose of unused or expired medications at designated drop-off sites, secure medicine in free locking boxes, and carry naloxone in case of an opioid overdose.

The Department of Community and Human Services offers treatment assistance for people experiencing substance misuse. Help is available 24 hours a day at 703-746-3636, with Virginia Relay available by dialing 711. People seeking help to stop using heroin or other opioids can call the Opioid Treatment Program at 703-746-3610.

Anyone who suspects an overdose should call 911 immediately. More information about opioid resources is available at alexandriava.gov/Opioids, while youth substance-misuse prevention resources are available at alexandriava.gov/SAPCA.