Published: 10/29/2026 | Author: Courtney Myers

A series of deadly overdoses hit Virginia Beach, where an estimated seven spikes from June through August each involved at least three deaths within the same 24-hour period. Health providers now warn folks to seek medical care immediately after an overdose.

To be sure, Virginia already has programs to handle addictions, including local Narcotics Anonymous chapters in local communities. Still, 21 have died and officials worry the spikes might mean an end to the overdose death rates decline in recent years.

Potential Changes

Laura Toombs is a medical director for BrightView Health. They provide addiction treatment and recovery services at several Hampton Roads locations. Toombs thinks the drug supply changed during the summer.

She pointed to a change in fentanyl potency or a change in the drugs mixed with it. A contaminated or unusually dangerous batch of cocaine or fentanyl can play a role.

Narcan Helps

Toombs credited Narcan/naloxone with helping folks survive opioid overdoses despite the spikes. The first dose might not work but a second might do the trick and help the victim recover.

Naloxone also saved her husband’s life. Jarratt started heroin at 21 and later moved on to multiple drugs. Treatment recently helped him discuss sexual abuse he had repressed for about 25 years. Being able to tell someone without embarrassment or shame became part of his recovery.

The couple recently celebrated their eighth wedding anniversary, and Jarratt credited Laura with believing in him when he didn’t believe in himself.

Treatment After an Overdose

Surviving an overdose creates an immediate opportunity to find care. Michele LaFemina, clinical director for Pathways Treatment Center, noted the hours after naloxone reverses an overdose are especially important. Withdrawal can be at its worst during those hours and people may be likely to use drugs again.

LaFemina urges for treatment at the scene rather than a delay. That guidance connects emergency response with opioid addiction treatment. Follow-up care can address withdrawal, cravings and ongoing needs.

Fentanyl test strips can determine whether a substance contains fentanyl. Test strips and naloxone provide different forms of protection. Test strips identify fentanyl before use, while naloxone is used after an overdose.

Making Economic Sense

Each dollar invested in lifesaving opioid care produced $14 to $20 in community economic benefits. Statewide, additional opioid care funding was associated with a $1.3 billion reduction in costs.

Norfolk, Portsmouth and Newport News were in the highest cost bracket among seven cities examined. Their estimated opioid-related costs ranged from $385-$1,144 per resident in 2024.

NA Battles Opioid Addiction

People can search our online directory for NA meetings, opioid treatment programs and information about naloxone and fentanyl. 

Call 800-934-1582(Sponsored) to discuss opioid addiction treatment options alongside an expert.