The greatest increase was seen in the Midwest region (69.7%), followed by the West (40.3%), Northeast (21.3%), Southwest (20.2%), and Southeast (14%).
Death rates rose across all demographics, regardless of sex or age.
While Delaware recorded some of the highest increases in deaths, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, and Rhode Island decreased, although not within statistical significance.
“These decreases may possibly be related to implementation of interventions, including expansion of access to medication-assisted treatment,” said Dr. Schuchat. “The decrease in Kentucky during this period of time may reflect some fluctuations in drug supply.”