A deadly Labor Day weekend: Medical examiner investigates 12 probable overdose deaths

MILWAUKEE -- The Milwaukee County medical examiner said on Sunday night, September 4th, they were investigating 12 probable overdose deaths occurring within a 72-hour period in Milwaukee County.

The Medical Examiner's Office tweeted out the devastating statistic -- along with the hashtag "Dose of Reality WI."

In August, FOX6 News shared a story on the severity of heroin and painkiller abuse in Milwaukee County, after nine probable overdose deaths within a six-day period.

Officials with the Milwaukee Health Department say this is really a silent epidemic when it comes to public perception. That is because we tend to focus on acute issues like Ebola or Zika. But overdoses are sweeping the country -- and happening right here in Milwaukee.

There is help out there for those struggling with addiction.

You can call the IMPACT call center by dialing 211. There, substance abuse experts take calls every day.

When you call 211, there will be a screening with questions about the individual's situation. IMPACT will then refer the caller to matching resources, regardless of whether they have insurance. The line is open 24/7.

CLICK HERE to learn more about the Wisconsin Department of Justice's "Dose of Reality" campaign.