Cook County poised for record number of opioid deaths; researchers warn hundreds more go uncounted

The number of opioid deaths in Cook County last year is likely to set a new record, according to the Cook County medical examiner’s office. (Sun-Times file)

The number of opioid deaths in Cook County last year is likely to set a new record, possibly reaching over 2,000 once all autopsy tests have been completed, the Cook County medical examiner’s office said Tuesday.

The office already has confirmed 1,599 opioid overdose deaths for 2022, and it expects 400 to 500 of its pending cases will also be listed as death by opioid toxicity. In 2021, the county reported a record 1,936 opioid overdoses.