ASSMCA reinforces naloxone distribution ahead of Sanse festival to prevent opioid overdoses

“Given the reality of fentanyl and the increase in overdoses in multiple jurisdictions, it is essential that Puerto Rico continues to move forward with responsible, humane, and prevention-focused measures,” the head of the Mental Health and Anti-Addiction Services Administration said.

By THE STAR STAFF

The Mental Health and Anti-Addiction Services Administration (ASSMCA by its initials in Spanish) announced Tuesday that it has strengthened its Naloxone Saturation Plan as a precautionary measure against potential opioid overdoses during the upcoming San Sebastián Street Festival.

“Given the reality of fentanyl and the increase in overdoses in multiple jurisdictions, it is essential that Puerto Rico continues to move forward with responsible, humane, and prevention-focused measures,” ASSMCA Administrator Catherine Oliver Franco said in a written statement. “Initiatives like this strengthen community response capacity and allow us to save lives while enjoying our traditions safely.”

As part of the plan, agency personnel will train merchants in Old San Juan and Cataño on the use and administration of intranasal naloxone. The initiative is funded through federal projects and aims to expand harm reduction strategies during large public gatherings.

According to data from the Naloxone Overdose and Use Monitoring System, ASSMCA intensified its prevention efforts anticipating a higher risk of overdoses during the festival, which begins this Thursday.

“Anyone can be exposed to an overdose, whether accidentally or through substance use, and illicit fentanyl is present in illegally obtained substances,” Oliver Franco warned.

The program is expected to reach more than 30 businesses and is designed to provide an initial response while awaiting emergency medical assistance. Oliver Franco emphasized that the initiative does not replace emergency services but rather complements them.

She also reminded the public that Law 35 of 2021 protects individuals who suffer an overdose and those who intervene in good faith using naloxone. Between June 2019 and December 2025, Puerto Rico reported 6,174 overdose events, 98% of which were non-fatal thanks to timely interventions.