First Death in Wisconsin Linked to Fake Weed
DHS continues to urge people to stop using synthetic cannabinoids
The Wisconsin Department of Health Services (DHS) is confirming a death in Milwaukee County related to the use of synthetic cannabinoids, often called fake weed, K2, and spice. This is the first confirmed death linked to the outbreak. Overall, Wisconsin has seen 45 cases since March of this year, including 37 confirmed cases and 8 probable cases. Counties with confirmed cases include Dane, Milwaukee, Outagamie, and Rock.
“We are continuing to work with local health departments, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the Poison Control Center, and other partners to try to identify common products or sources,” said State Health Officer Karen McKeown.
DHS strongly urges people to stop using these drugs. If you or someone you know has a serious reaction to synthetic cannabinoids, call 911 or go to the emergency department right away. Even if you are not bleeding, see a doctor if you have used synthetic cannabinoids; you may be at risk for bleeding as this product can stay in your system for months.
Synthetic cannabinoid products are not legal in Wisconsin. The health effects from using them can be unpredictable, harmful, and even life threatening. These products are created by spraying chemicals on dried plant material to be inhaled in tobacco products like e-cigarettes or other vaping devices.
NOTE: This press release was submitted to Urban Milwaukee and was not written by an Urban Milwaukee writer. While it is believed to be reliable, Urban Milwaukee does not guarantee its accuracy or completeness.
Recent Press Releases by Wisconsin Department of Health Services
DHS Launches New System to Help Communities Track and Respond to Overdose
Nov 14th, 2024 by Wisconsin Department of Health ServicesWisconsin Suspected Overdose Alerts for Rapid Response (WiSOARR) system will help the state's efforts to address overdose epidemic
DHS Urges Wisconsinites to Protect Themselves Against Respiratory Viruses This Holiday Season
Nov 13th, 2024 by Wisconsin Department of Health ServicesNow is the time to get flu, COVID-19, and RSV vaccines
Wisconsin WIC Program Celebrates 50 Years of Increasing Access to Healthy Food, Nutrition Education, and Breastfeeding Support
Oct 30th, 2024 by Wisconsin Department of Health ServicesNationwide anniversary of Women, Infants, and Children program celebrated in Wisconsin's 61 WIC agencies
