Published: Monday, 1st February, 2010 4:59pm

ANTHRAX HEROIN USER IN LOCAL HOSPITAL

A HEROIN-USER in a local hospital has been confirmed as having anthrax, it can be revealed.

The new case of the potential killer is the first to have happened in NHS Ayrshire and Arran and now drug users in the area are being warned to be vigilant.

Investigations are talking place into whether the deadly outbreak has come from contaminated heroin or whether a cutting agent is responsible.

Of the 15 confirmed cases of anthrax, seven people have died so far.

Dr Colin Ramsay, consultant epidemiologist at Health Protection scotland said heroin users should stop using to avoid the danger.

He said: "Heroin users all across Scotland need to be aware of the risk that their supply may be contaminated."

See the Times for the full story.

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