The increasing frequency of fentanyl-laced plastic bags being left on the car doors of unsuspecting women is a cause for concern. In one recent case, a young mother was followed by an unknown man for hours at a New Orleans Zoo before a security guard eventually escorted her back to her vehicle. On arrival, she found that the plastic bags had been placed on her car doors. She immediately called the police, but the unknown man had already fled the scene.
Another incident occurred to Houston resident Erin Mims who, after realizing a napkin had been wedged in the door handle of her car, began experiencing symptoms which doctors believe may have been exposure to an “unknown substance”. Mims and her husband were at a Houston restaurant when she discovered the napkin and threw it out without thinking anything of it. A few minutes later, she began to experience symptoms including tingling fingers, difficulty breathing, chest pain, and a racing heart rate.
Mims was taken to the hospital where she underwent urine tests, blood tests, and a CAT scan. The doctors were unable to determine the cause of her symptoms, but told her it was likely due to acute poisoning from an unknown substance.
Although the details of her toxicology report are unknown, local poison control expert Mark Winter believes that it’s possible her symptoms suggested that she may have been poisoned with fentanyl. While it is impossible to know for sure, her exposure would be considered “casual,” or minimal. However, as Dr. Winter points out, “The probability is that you would have to have a lot more than just a casual exposure.”
Mims has decided to share her story in order to warn others about the dangers of fentanyl and urges people to be aware of their surroundings and contact the police if they experience any similar symptoms.
This type of situation is becoming all too common across the country as criminals attempt to take advantage of unsuspecting women. Fentanyl is a powerful drug that can be lethal in small doses; therefore, it is essential that women are aware of this danger and take steps to protect themselves.
