A drug user has been admitted to hospital with a suspected case of botulism.

Doctors at Aberdeen Royal Infirmary are treating the patient and NHS Grampian has alerted to local groups which work with intravenous drug users.

Botulism is a potentially fatal condition which attacks the nervous system and causes paralysis.

It is caused by bacteria which can contaminate heroin and can be treated with anti-toxins.

A spokesman for the Scottish Drugs Forum said: "The Health Protection Team for NHS Grampian is investigating a case of suspected botulism in an injecting drug user admitted to Aberdeen Royal Infirmary.

"Botulism is an illness caused by bacteria called Clostridium botulinum. Spores of these bacteria live in soil, and can sometimes contaminate heroin supplies.

"Once injected, the bacteria can grow and cause wound infections. The bacteria produce a toxin, which causes paralysis of nerves.

"Botulism is a medical emergency and should be considered in any client or patient who presents with, double or blurred vision, blurred vision, drooping eyelids, slurred speech, difficulty swallowing, dry mouth, muscle weakness, or paralysis of the respiratory muscles, arms, legs, and trunk."

NHS Grampian confirmed it is investigating a "single suspected case" of botulism.