HEALTH bosses say there have been no new cases of the deadly bacterial infection which has killed 12 people in mid Essex.

The NHS Mid Essex Clinical Commissioning Group is continuing to lead the investigation into the outbreak of invasive Group A Streptococcus and insists the number of people affected has not risen in the past few weeks.

So far, there have been 30 confirmed cases in the Braintree, Chelmsford and Maldon areas and a further two deemed 'probable'.

The CCG says it is undertaking Whole Genome Sequencing to identify differences and similarities in the DNA sequence of the strep A bacteria found in people affected.

Bosses say they will update the public on the findings when tests are completed.

Anyone with concerns or requesting more information should contact the freephone helpline on 03000 032124.