Manchester Sees Record Decline in Overdose Deaths Under Ruais Administration

MANCHESTER, N.H. — Mayor Jay Ruais announced this week that Manchester is on pace for its most significant reduction in overdose deaths in more than a decade, driven by the city’s aggressive public health strategy and coordinated emergency response efforts.

New data from American Medical Response (AMR) and the Manchester Police Department show a projected 49% decrease in suspected overdoses and a 51% decrease in overdose fatalities compared to last year. The drop comes as the city implements its comprehensive 2024 Overdose Prevention Strategy, which emphasizes early intervention, real-time data sharing, and wraparound services for high-risk individuals.

“This is an incredible accomplishment,” said Mayor Ruais. “We’re saving lives, getting people the help they need, and doing it faster than other communities across the country.”

The 2024 strategy focuses on four major pillars: prevention, response, recovery, and harm reduction. Among its most impactful initiatives are:

• The Rapid Overdose Assessment and Response Team (ROART): A cross-functional team that responds to non-fatal overdoses within 24-48 hours to engage individuals with services and treatment options.

• Data-Driven Decision-Making: AMR and Manchester Police use integrated data to identify overdose “hot spots” and deploy targeted outreach.

• Community-Based Naloxone Distribution: More than 2,500 doses of naloxone have been distributed this year through community partners, first responders, and the city’s Public Health Department.

• Expanded Peer Recovery Support: Certified peer recovery coaches now follow up with overdose survivors to help guide them into treatment and provide long-term support.

Public Health Director Anna Thomas credited Manchester’s partnership with the CDC for helping develop and evaluate the city’s approach. “All life is precious and every one saved is worth fighting for,” Thomas said, noting the consistent work of community providers, emergency responders, and health department staff.

The city also launched a public-facing overdose dashboard to improve transparency and allow stakeholders to track progress. In addition, training programs for local businesses, schools, and housing providers have helped build a broader support network for those in recovery.

Mayor Ruais thanked the state of New Hampshire, the CDC, and local leaders such as Director of Overdose Prevention Andrew Warner for their commitment. “Our work is far from done,” he said, “but the results speak for themselves.”

Residents struggling with substance use disorder, anxiety, or other mental health issues are encouraged to contact The Doorway by calling 2-1-1 or visiting thedoorway.nh.gov. The city’s full prevention plan is available at manchesternh.gov.