The HSE says Strep A is being 'actively considered' as a possible cause in the death of a four-year-old child in Ireland.
It follows the death of a five-year-old girl in the North.
The HSE's Director of Health Protection Dr Eamonn O'Moore told RTE that Strep A is one of a number of illnesses that is being considered as a contributory factor in the child's death.
He said it hadn't been confirmed yet, and that it is subject to laboratory investigation.
The child died in the public health area which takes in North Dublin and the northeast of the country.
Latest figures state that over 55 cases of Strep A have been confirmed here, while two older people have died.
It follows the death of a five-year-old girl in the North last night, which is also being linked to the infection.
