Strep A outbreak: 12 people have been killed (Image: GETTY )
An urgent warning has been issued after 32 people were infected across Essex with the invasive bacterial infection Group A streptococcal (iGAS). Public Health England has launched an investigation after the outbreak hit Braintree and cases have been found in Maldon and Chelmsford, according to a report by the Mid Essex Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG). Most of those affected were “elderly and had been receiving care for chronic wounds in the community and care homes”.
The bacteria, which normally lives harmlessly on the skin, nose or mouth but can invade the body’s bloodstream and release poisonous toxins.
Streptococcal infections can be major or minor - minor infections include throat infections, but major infections can include sepsis, meningitis, necrotising fasciitis, Toxic Shock Syndrome (TSS) or flesh-eating disease.
Staphylococcal infections can include impetigo, boils but can also include sepsis, TSS and pneumonia.
The CCG
