HEROIN users in Scotland face a potentially deadly risk from
anthrax infection.
In 2009/10 an outbreak of anthrax among heroin users in Scotland
infected 47 people, of whom 14 died.
Contaminated heroin or cutting agent – possibly contaminated
during the production or handling stage – was thought to have been
the source of the outbreak.
Because the quality and safety of heroin cannot be monitored
or controlled, we most likely will continue to see sporadic cases
and outbreaks of illness