Heroin contaminated with anthrax could be imported into the Island, the police drug trafficking unit has warned.

A total of 17 heroin users in Scotland have been found to have anthrax infection over the past month.

Eight of these users have died and the remainder are continuing to receive treatment.

Acting Detective Sergeant Andy Pailor said: ‘I want to emphasise that there are no recorded incidents of contaminated heroin on the Isle of Man but we cannot ignore the possibility, and that is why we are issuing a public warning.

‘Although most of the Island’s illegal drugs come via Merseyside, the complex international supply chain could expose users in the Island to a contaminated batch.’

Heroin users are asked to seek medical help immediately if they suffer symptoms of anthrax infection, which include lesions on the skin that are itchy and inflamed.

If inhaled, symptoms begin with a flu like illness – fever, headache, muscle aches and cough leading to breathlessness.

Police officers have been given advice on how to minimise the risks of infection when handling potentially contaminated drugs.

Additionally, all relevant agencies and government departments have been circulated with information about the possibility of heroin contamination as part of the Drugs Alert protocol, established under the Chief Minister’s Drug and Alcohol Strategy.

Anyone who wishes to seek help or advice for any problems relating to drugs can contact the Drug and Alcohol Team on 617889 or the Drug Advice Service and Helpline on 615622.