Ludwig,
Sorry to be a bore.
The problem with the media (and consequently public opinion) is that it tends to be sensationalised, by definition is about focusing the *extreme* end (sexy end). It works on sales but is catastrophic to cerebral issues.

On one hand it gets the sales interest rapidly but also engenders an equally aggressive and often equally unreasoned push back (denial of the real substance).
e.g. AGW where the focus is now on the conflict rather than the issue.

I would suggest that the reality is probably far more tragic if less dramatic.

2 dead is hardly a major problem but what probably goes unreported to GPs, hospitals and even less by the media, would be the real numbers of victims.i.e. we read or hear about the spectacular motor vehicle accidents but all the injuries(suffering) unless they are horrific.

I think your flat mate is thinking on this topic is a bit unrealistic and dare I say, superficial.

I think if he contacted the emergency intervention services they would have a better idea of the real depth suffering of the issue.
Also one needs to take into account natural propensities to sensitives to the drug.

The reporting (all media) is naturally geared more to selling copy than real information.
My literal answer would be yes it is the job of the down to the media however, economics often preclude them doing it properly.

And yes it is an important issue.