Two die from "flesh-eating" disease

Two people have died in the last ten days in the Western region from a rare deep tissue infection.

A spokesperson for the Western Health Service Executive has confirmed that the deaths occurred in recent weeks.

The infection called "necrotizing fasciitis" is found deep under the skin in tissue surrounding muscles.

In both cases the common bacteria Group A streptococcus was found following laboratory examinations, a statement from the Health Service Executive said.

This is the same bacteria that causes common infections such as sore throat or impetigo but it is not clear why some people develop the serious infection of necrotizing fasciitis, the statement said.

There is no evidence that the infection can be contracted by people in contact with a patient.

The two people that died in the West are thought to have no connection with each other and come from different counties.