Recent reports and videos have brought to the forefront a distressing situation in several American cities, where areas grappling with severe drug problems are being called “zombie cities”. These areas, notably in Philadelphia and Los Angeles, are characterised by high rates of homelessness, widespread drug addiction, and the presence of dangerous substances. The situation presents a serious public health issue and has become a matter of significant concern.

zombie city

The Rise of the “Zombie Drug”

A key factor in this crisis is the emergence of Xylazine, a potent animal tranquilliser. Often referred to as the “zombie drug” or “tranq”, Xylazine is being mixed with opioids such as fentanyl. This combination is particularly dangerous because Xylazine is not an opioid and does not respond to traditional overdose treatments. Xylazine can lead to a drop in heart rate and breathing difficulties in humans, and it also causes severe skin ulcers, sometimes leading to amputation. The monthly percentage of deaths from fentanyl laced with Xylazine increased by 276 percent from January 2021 to June 2022 across 21 US jurisdictions.

Conditions in “Zombie Cities”

The areas affected are often marked by visible signs of homelessness and drug addiction. Many people live in tents on the streets, and discarded needles are common. These areas are described as dangerous, with high crime rates and overt drug use.

  • Philadelphia: Kensington in Philadelphia is considered the epicentre of America’s drug crisis. The area is known for its high concentration of people who are stranded and addicted to drugs.
  • Los Angeles: Skid Row in Los Angeles is another area where homelessness and drug use are prevalent, with many people living in tents along the roads.

Why “Zombie”? The Human Impact

The term “zombie” has come into use to describe the appearance and behaviour of people severely affected by these drugs.

  • Physical Effects: Individuals under the influence of “tranq” are described as being unable to walk normally, often appearing disoriented or slumped over.
  • Addiction: The drugs, especially Xylazine, are highly addictive. This makes the cycle of abuse extremely difficult to break.
  • Health Issues: Users suffer from severe health problems, including skin ulcers and infections, exacerbated by a lack of access to care.
  • Homelessness: Many struggling with drug addiction also experience homelessness, due to losing their jobs or an inability to maintain their homes.
  • Safety: These areas are very unsafe with high crime rates. There is a risk of being attacked by drug dealers or others who are under the influence.

Responses and the Scale of the Issue

The responses to the crises in these “zombie cities” have been varied. Police may be present but often do not intervene in drug use. There are some community efforts to help such as providing food, clothing and harm reduction supplies. However, many feel the problem is overwhelming and requires a large-scale intervention, possibly involving the military.

The Broader Picture

The situation in these “zombie cities” highlights a serious and complex problem in the US, where drug addiction, homelessness and poverty are interlinked. These areas serve as a stark reminder that the American dream is not a reality for all, and that the drug crisis in America is an issue that impacts communities across the country.

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