Annapolis Valley drug deaths investigated

A senior health official will look for patterns in recent prescription drug-related deaths in the Annapolis Valley, saysHealth Minister Maureen MacDonald.

Dr. Richard Gould is themedical officer of health for the region.

"We decidedthe best course of action is to engage Dr. Gould to determine the facts and report on any patterns he finds related to these unfortunate deaths,"MacDonaldsaid in a release Wednesday.

MacDonald said Gould will work with Kentville police and the medical examiner's office.

Police Chief Mark Mander said at least nine people have died since he warned the province about prescription drug abuse in the area 15 months ago.

He said police have seen people walk out of pharmacies with their prescriptions thenimmediately sell thedrugs to others.