The Bermuda Hospitals Board is equipped to deal with fentanyl overdoses should they occur on the island, according to a spokeswoman.

Speaking after the Bermuda Police Service revealed that the synthetic opioid has been found in Bermuda, the BHB said guidelines are already in place at the Emergency Department to manage any drug overdoses.

“Fentanyl is a type of opiod (narcotic) and its overdose is treated in the same manner as other opioids,” the spokeswoman said.

“It is very powerful but we have the appropriate equipment and medication.

“Our aim is to save lives, but the public should be aware that drug overdose is serious and, although every effort will be made to save the patient, they may not survive.”

Meanwhile, the Ministry of Health and Seniors said that it is working closely with the Bermuda Police Service to warn the public about the drug.

“Government health professionals, including those who administer drug treatment, have been informed of the public health threat,” a ministry spokeswoman said.

“Bermuda Hospitals Board’s emergency physicians and EMTs are aware of the symptoms of a fentanyl overdose and are prepared to deal with incidents on a case-by-case basis.

“Fentanyl is much stronger than morphine and can be lethal in very small doses, so if an overdose is suspected, seek immediate medical help.”