DEC 20

By Lauren Taylor (Reporter), Alex Peebles (Producer), Ian Kennedy (Editor)

New Mexico health officials said they found widespread cocaine usage when testing wastewater for opioids and stimulants at dozens of schools in and around Albuquerque. The discovery came during statewide wastewater testing at high schools ordered by Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham, D, after she declared drug abuse a public health emergency.

Officials had expected to find fentanyl and other opioids but were surprised when they tested nearly 40 Albuquerque high schools and found cocaine use at 82% of them.

According to newly released data from the state, of samples collected from 38 schools, 31 of them tested positive for cocaine and its metabolite. Fentanyl and its metabolite were found in nearly a quarter of the 38 schools. The state also tested for heroin but found no trace in any of the samples.

“Of particular note was the pervasive presence of cocaine in the sampling,” said Health Secretary Patrick Allen. “That’s one area where we can improve communications with students right now as parents, school leaders and public health experts. On the other hand, it’s clear that prevention efforts work: heroin was not detected in any of the schools so far.”

However, officials warn people to compare results cautiously as the data has limitations. For instance, the data cannot tell who is using the drugs as the samples include everyone who used the bathroom on the day it was taken, including teachers, staff, students, and visitors.

Officials added that it is not possible to determine whether or not all the drugs detected are legal or illegal. Still, Gov. Lujan Grisham said the first-its-kind initiative gives data that can act as a jumping point for schools and policymakers to make informed decisions to combat substance abuse in their communities.

“Knowledge is power, and having more data about the presence of illicit substances in schools informs our collaborative efforts at the school, community, and government levels,” Grisham said.

As of last week, the state announced nearly 90 schools have been tested statewide, and testing will continue with data being released weekly.

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