Health officials have issued an alert, saying nine people have died in an ongoing invasive group A streptococcus outbreak in the London area.

The outbreak was declared more than 18 months ago and the Middlesex-London Health Unit says more than 132 cases of infection have been reported since April 1, 2016.

Of the cases, 22 per cent required treatment in intensive care, 15 per cent had Streptococcal Toxic Shock Syndrome and 15 per cent had necrotizing fasciitis - also called "flesh-eating" disease.

Associate Medical Officer of Health Dr. Gayane Hovhannisyan said about half of the cases have been among injection drug users and/or people without access to stable housing.

“Anyone who has had contact with Petland puppies in the chain’s stores, homes or elsewhere is urged to seek medical attention if they have developed symptoms of Campylobacter infection. Symptoms can include diarrhea that is often bloody, fever, stomach cramps, nausea and vomiting.”

Hey everyone. I thought I would share this article to spread some more awareness about these updates. I’m not a fan of Puppies and Kittens being sold in pet stores for these reasons, among plenty of others, usually.