Overdose deaths have decreased in West Virginia, according to a new report. Data shows a more than 40% decrease in overdose deaths from January to August 2024 when compared to the same timeframe in 2023, according to a news release from the West Virginia Department of Human Services. West Virginia has surpassed the national average for decreasing overdose deaths when comparing year-over-year numbers. The agency said the annual reduction – along with prevention, treatment and recovery efforts – have translated to hundreds of West Virginians surviving substance abuse issues.