The New York Post, a conservative tabloid newspaper, has sparked outrage and criticism over its cover story on Monday, August 28, 2023. The story, titled “The Trouble with Tranq”, features a graphic photo of a woman’s arm with severe skin lesions caused by a synthetic drug known as tranq. The article claims that tranq, which is often mixed with fentanyl, is spreading across New York and causing flesh-rotting effects on users.
What is tranq and why is it dangerous?
Tranq is a slang term for tranquillizer, a class of drugs that are used to sedate animals or humans. According to the New York Post article, tranq is a chalky additive that is often laced with fentanyl, a powerful opioid that can cause respiratory depression and overdose. Tranq can also contain other substances, such as ketamine, PCP, or carfentanil, which can have unpredictable and harmful effects on the brain and body.
One of the most alarming effects of tranq is its ability to cause necrosis, or tissue death, on the skin and muscles of users. The article cites several cases of people who developed severe wounds and infections after injecting tranq. Some of them had to undergo amputations or skin grafts to save their limbs. The article also quotes medical experts who warn that tranq can cause blood clots, organ failure, and death.
How did the New York Post obtain the photo and the information?
The New York Post claims that it obtained the photo and the information from an anonymous source who works as a paramedic in New York City. The source said that he encountered many cases of tranq users who had horrific injuries and begged for help. He said that he decided to share the photo and the story with the newspaper to raise awareness and prevent more people from using tranq.
However, some critics have questioned the authenticity and the ethics of the photo and the story. They argue that the photo could have been staged or manipulated, or that it could have been taken from another source without proper consent or attribution. They also accuse the newspaper of exploiting and sensationalizing the plight of drug users, instead of providing accurate and compassionate coverage.
What are the reactions and responses to the cover story?
The cover story has generated a lot of backlash and controversy on social media and other platforms. Many people have expressed their anger and disgust at the New York Post for publishing such a graphic and disturbing image without warning or context. They have also criticized the newspaper for using stigmatizing and dehumanizing language to describe drug users, such as “zombies” and “junkies”.
Some people have also pointed out that the cover story ignores the root causes and the solutions for the drug crisis, such as poverty, trauma, mental health issues, lack of access to treatment, harm reduction, and decriminalization. They have called for more empathy and support for people who struggle with substance use disorders, instead of fear-mongering and shaming.
On the other hand, some people have defended the cover story as a necessary and effective way to expose the dangers and consequences of tranq. They have praised the newspaper for being bold and honest in reporting on a serious public health issue. They have also argued that the cover story could serve as a deterrent and a wake-up call for potential or current tranq users.
