State Representative Dave Severin | RepSeverin.com
State Representative Dave Severin | RepSeverin.com
State Representative Dave Severin addressed the dangers of fentanyl in an October 2 Facebook post, stating, "Illicit fentanyl has become a widespread problem, resulting in deaths across our state and nation."
"Illicit fentanyl has become a widespread problem, resulting in deaths across our state and nation," said Severin, according to Facebook.
In his post, Severin shared a link to an article from The Southern that aimed to clarify misinformation surrounding the drug. According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), there were approximately 75,000 deaths last year where fentanyl played a role. However, the drug does not spread like a virus or linger in the air; it is a painkiller available in patch or pill form and can also exist as a powder. Dr. Jason West of Southern Illinois Healthcare explained that one must smoke, ingest, or inject fentanyl to be affected by it.
Screenshot of State Rep. Dave Severin's Oct. 2 Facebook post
| State Representative Dave Severin's Facebook page
According to the Illinois Department of Public Health, since 2013, overdose deaths attributed to synthetic opioids have surged by 3,341%, increasing from 87 deaths in 2013 to 2,994 in 2022. From 2021 to 2022 alone, opioid overdoses rose by 8.2%, largely due to synthetic opioids like fentanyl.
The US Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) describes fentanyl as a drug typically used for chronic severe pain or severe postoperative pain relief. It provides pain relief and induces feelings of euphoria but can also cause nausea and sedation. The DEA reports that illicit fentanyl is mainly manufactured abroad and smuggled into the United States from Mexico. It is often mixed with other drugs and sold as powders or pills resembling prescription opioids. Just two milligrams can be lethal, with tests showing that 42% of pills contain at least this amount.
Severin has served in the Illinois General Assembly since 2016, initially representing the 117th District and currently serving in the 116th District. He resides in Benton with his wife and owns All-Stars-n-Stitches in Benton and Graphics Galore in Marion.
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