Virginia launches new website to fight prescription drug and heroin addiction

RICHMOND (WSLS 10) - Governor Terry McAuliffe announced the launch of a new website developed as an informational tool for Virginia's fight against prescription drug and heroin abuse on Tuesday.

www.VaAware.com features specific pages for parents, health-care providers, law enforcement members and those seeking help with addiction.

"This website is an important tool to help those struggling with addiction and their family members find resources available in Virginia, and to provide a resource to health care and public safety professionals seeking the latest information in our efforts to end this epidemic," said McAuliffe. "Deaths from prescription drug overdoses doubled in Virginia over the past 15 years, while heroin-related deaths tripled from 2011 to 2015. We must all do our part to bring positive change to the lives of Virginians battling substance abuse, and I am proud of our state agencies for their teamwork and dedication to this important initiative."

The website is the result of collaboration between four Virginia agencies: the Department of Health Professions, the Virginia Department of Health, the Department of Criminal Justice Services, and the Department of Behavioral Health and Development Services. The site is hosted and maintained by the Department of Health Professions.