The Northern Health Region has issued a drug alert for Thompson after a dangerous substance sold as crack cocaine caused multiple seizures and at least one death in recent weeks.
Health officials say the rock-like substance has reportedly led to seizures and one death. The alert urges people who use substances to start low and go slow, avoid using alone, and keep naloxone nearby and know how to use it.
Anyone using alone can call the National Overdose Response Service at 1-888-688-NORS (6677). The service provides telephone-based supervised consumption support around the clock.
Drug-checking test strips are available through the Manitoba Harm Reduction Network by calling 204-783-6184.
The warning affects residents who use substances, their families, and first responders who may encounter overdose situations. Manitoba recorded 388 substance-related deaths in 2025, a 31.9 percent decrease from the previous year, but January 2026 saw 37 preliminary deaths.
