Virginia is reporting a major decline in fentanyl-related overdose deaths—nearly 59 percent lower today than in January 2022. State leaders gathered in Richmond this week to acknowledge the milestone and to highlight the coordinated efforts behind the improvement.
Fentanyl had become the leading cause of overdose deaths in Virginia, with an average of five Virginians dying each day in 2022. Since then, state, local, and federal agencies have expanded enforcement, prevention programs, and access to naloxone, a medication that can reverse opioid overdose.
A Multi-Year Effort
Officials credited the drop to a combination of efforts:
Law enforcement
A statewide initiative known as Operation FREE has led to:
- more than 2,900 arrests,
- over 56,000 pounds of illegal narcotics seized,
- and large amounts of fentanyl removed from circulation.
Stronger penalties
Recent laws increased consequences for fentanyl distribution, restricted the sale of pill presses, and created a new felony charge for dealers whose drugs result in a fatal overdose. Schools are also now required to notify parents within 24 hours of any confirmed or suspected student overdose.
Public education
Statewide campaigns like It Only Takes One and One Pill Can Kill have targeted teens, college students, and families with information about the dangers of fentanyl.
More than 160 “Fentanyl Family Ambassadors,” 34 college ambassadors, and extensive media outreach have supported this effort.
Naloxone availability
Virginia has dramatically expanded access to naloxone:
- Over 430,000 doses distributed since 2022
- Nearly 100,000 Virginians trained to use it
- More than 300 REVIVE! trainers now qualified to teach others
These programs have helped more people respond quickly in emergencies and save lives.
A Continuing Challenge
Despite the progress, leaders emphasized that the work isn’t over. Fentanyl remains a major threat across the country, and officials urged communities to stay alert, get trained, and learn how to help those struggling with addiction.
For information on overdose response training or naloxone availability, Virginians can visit the state’s REVIVE! program or the It Only Takes One website.
