The University of Missouri’s Interfraternity Council is urging students to take overdose risks seriously after two University of Mississippi students were found dead this week.
The deaths came days after Ole Miss’ big home win over LSU, and the cause of death for the two students remains unclear. Police reportedly responded to calls of a possible overdose, and kratom was reportedly found in both investigation sites.
In response, the Mizzou IFC released a statement focused on drug and alcohol safety, while also emphasizing the role of Narcan in an emergency.
“If someone is experiencing a suspected overdose, administering Narcan can help reverse the effects of opioids while emergency medical help is on the way,” Mizzou IFC said. “Having Narcan available and knowing how to use it can make the difference in an emergency.”
The council also warned students not to assume a substance is safe simply because it comes in familiar packaging.
“The Mizzou IFC encourages every member of our community to educate themselves about overdose prevention, know where to access Narcan, and take action when a fellow student or brother may be in danger,” Mizzou IFC said. “We stand with Ole Miss and the broader collegiate fraternity community during this difficult time.”
The statement continued with support for those affected in Oxford and beyond.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with the students, families, friends, and fraternity communities affected,” Mizzou IFC said. “As members of the fraternity community, we have a responsibility to look our for one another and to take seriously the risks that can come with unknown or counterfeit substances.”
Investigations into the deaths at Ole Miss are ongoing.
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