An outbreak of infection with Bacillus anthracis in injecting drug users in Scotland

Euro Surveill. 2010 Jan 14;15(2):19465. doi: 10.2807/ese.15.02.19465-en.

Abstract

An investigation is currently underway to explore and control an outbreak of Bacillus anthracis among drug users (mainly injecting) in Scotland. Contaminated heroin or a contaminated cutting agent mixed with the heroin is considered to be the most likely source and vehicle of infection. Heroin users have been advised of the risk. The risk to the general public is regarded as very low.

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Anthrax / etiology*
  • Bacillus anthracis / isolation & purification*
  • Disease Outbreaks*
  • Female
  • Heroin / administration & dosage
  • Heroin / adverse effects
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Population Surveillance
  • Scotland / epidemiology
  • Substance Abuse, Intravenous / microbiology*

Substances

  • Heroin