Thirteen people have now died from an outbreak of Group A Streptococcus (iGAS) bacterium in Essex.

Mid Essex Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG) said two cases found in the West Essex CCG area had been linked to the outbreak.

One of the newly discovered patients has died, it said.

The infection is believed to have started in Braintree, with cases also being found in Chelmsford and Maldon.

Elderly people have been diagnosed the most with the illness, the majority of sufferers are receiving treatment for wounds, some in care homes or at home.

A total of 31 cases have been confirmed, including the 13 fatalities, and another four probable cases.

Mid Essex CCG said an incident management team was working closely with West Essex CCG to manage the outbreak.

In a statement released by the group, the NHS Mid Essex CCG said: "The incident management team continues to monitor the control measures advised nationally by Public Health England which are already in place, to limit the spread of this infection.

"Public Health England will advise what control measures need to be implemented in West Essex where patients are affected by iGAS.

"The NHS understands this is a worrying time for people and wants to reassure members of the public that the risk of contracting iGAS is very low.

"Treatment with antibiotics is usually very effective when started early."

Group A strep bacteria can cause infections which range from minor illnesses to deadly diseases.

The illness usually displays no symptoms but can can be found in the throat and on the skin.

The local Freephone helpline number, 03000 032124, is open Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm, for anyone with concerns about iGAS infection.

The helpline is now being answered by colleagues at Essex County Council who are supporting Mid Essex CCG and West Essex CCG with answering questions.

Updates on the outbreak and West Essex cases will continue to be available at

midessexccg.nhs.uk