New anthrax warning for heroin addicts

THERE are no warning signs that heroin may be infected with a deadly substance, health chiefs have warned.

Two drug users in the Lothians have been poisoned with anthrax as part of a nationwide problem with a bad heroin batch. In total, 39 people across Scotland have been hit, with 12 deaths, though none of the fatalities have occurred in the Capital.

While the numbers here are relatively low compared to other health board areas, experts said there could be no guarantee for addicts that the drug they were using was safe. Health Protection Scotland said: "Drug users have again been advised that there is no way of determining whether their heroin supply is clear of contamination."