Chief Medical Officer Dr. John Cann yesterday sought to dampen concern about the flesh-eating bug which has claimed 11 lives in Britain.

There was no evidence of an increase in Group A Streptococcal infections worldwide -- and no cases had been reported in Bermuda, he said.

"These infections are rare.''.

Dr. Cann said Group A Streptococci was often associated with skin or respiratory infections.

The most common illness brought on by Streptococcal infection was acute tonsillitis, normally referred to as "strep throat''.

"The skin is the second most common site of infection. Impetigo, for example, is a form of streptococcal skin infection.

"Less commonly, Group A Streptococci may cause a syndrome associated with local tissue destruction, such as has occurred in the cases in the United Kingdom and Canada.

"If any individuals have concerns about skin infections, or whether they have a Group A Streptococcal infection, they should consult with their physician or check at a public health clinic.''