To discuss the opioid epidemic, overdose prevention drugs, and more, The 21st was joined by a panel of healthcare and addiction treatment workers.

Earlier this month, U.S. Surgeon General Jerome Adams issued an advisory. More Americans he said, should know how to use naloxone, the opioid overdose antidote, and carry it with them in case they encounter someone who has overdosed on heroin or other opioids. But actually getting a hold of naloxone can be difficult. Many pharmacies and local health departments don’t stock it, and not everyone can afford it.

U.S. House Speaker Paul Ryan has been open to criticism in saying he will not defend Donald Trump, but not rescinding his endorsement following the controversy over a video tape of Trump advocating sexual assault recorded in 2005. But during a stop in Normal Thursday, U.S. Senator Mark Kirk said Ryan had done enough to distance himself from the GOP nominee.

By mid-July, all deputies will carry vials of Narcan, or naloxone, which stops respiratory failure caused by heroin and other opioids.  They're partnering with Carle, which is paying for the vials with community funds.