Overview

• The Chicago Department of Public Health activated its spike alert after 60 overdoses were reported June 21–22, exceeding a lowered 37-case threshold.
• Record highs near 95°F with heat indices above 100 coincided with the surge, reflecting a seasonal rise in outdoor opioid use.
• Synthetic opioids, especially fentanyl, were linked to most cases, prompting rapid drug sample testing to identify dangerous mixtures.
• East Garfield Park, West Garfield Park, North Lawndale, Austin and Humboldt Park accounted for about one-third of all weekend overdose calls.
• Health workers and community partners have canvassed affected neighborhoods to distribute naloxone, provide harm reduction guidance and connect individuals to treatment.