Ecstasy ‘a Risk of Disease’

ECSTASY permanently damages the immune system and puts users at risk of disease, scientists warned yesterday.

Even occasional use of the drug can leave people open to infection.

Taking just one e-tab suppresses the immune system for 48 hours, researchers found.

During that time people contract colds, flu and other illnesses and diseases.

Long-term use of the Class A drug is believed to permanently damage the immune system.

Dr Thomas Connor, who led the study, said: “Given that when you take these drugs, you are likely to be in a packed club surrounded by people, many of whom will have colds and flu, we believe there is a significant risk.”

His team, from Trinity College, Dublin, examined the active ingredients in MDMA, or ecstasy, as reports said the price of the drug has plummeted.