A rare strain doctors haven't seen before kills 2 people

QUINCY, IL -- Subzero temperatures in the Tri-States can be a breeding ground for sicknesses going around.

Strep Throat is one of the culprits, and it can pack a deadly punch.  We found out that 2 people died from a rare strain of it in New Mexico.

Dr. Musab Saeed is an infectious disease physician with Quincy Medical Group. He says he's seen about 7 cases of Strep Throat since November 1, only one of those was severe.

"Streptococcus is a group of bacteria. Depending on the bacteria it is, what other resistance, it can cause serious infection," Dr. Saeed said.

That can lead to Rheumatic or Scarlet fever, Staph, skin and soft tissue infection. And if it enters the bloodstream, it can kill you.  But those cases are rare. Strep Throat is a bacterial throat infection. Most cases cause soreness in your throat, trouble swallowing, fever, and chills.

There's no shot that prevents the disease, but Dr. Saeed says simple hygiene like washing your hands, and staying away from those who are sick can save you a trip to the doctors office and a few bucks.

Young kids are most at risk to Strep Throat, because their immune systems are still developing, however, you can still get it at any age.

For a list of treatments, and more information on the disease, click on the CDC link below:

http://www.cdc.gov/ncidod/dbmd/diseaseinfo/groupastreptococcal_g.htm