A woman has died at an Edinburgh hospital after contracting the Group A Streptococcal infection.

The 86-year-old patient died in Liberton Hospital after she developed the illness, which is caused by a bacterium usually found living harmlessly on the skin, nose or throat.

An elderly man, who had been an inpatient in the same hospital, is seriously ill with the infection and is currently being treated at the Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh (RIE).

Another elderly patient who displayed symptoms similar to the infection is currently undergoing tests and treatment at the RIE.

NHS Lothian have confirmed the ward where the woman was treated is not accepting any new patients until further notice and infection control procedures have been reinforced throughout the hospital as a precaution.

Tests are also underway to establish the source and strains of the infection to establish if there is any link between those patients who are confirmed cases.

Patients who display symptoms and skin problems have been tested for the infection as a precautionary measure. This will allow them to begin treatment if necessary.

Dr Alison McCallum, Director of Public Health and Health Policy, NHS Lothian, said: "Our thoughts are with the families at this time.

"Fortunately, in the vast majority of Group A Strep cases, patients will only suffer mild symptoms and make a full recovery. However, Group A Strep can be serious for elderly people and others with underlying health conditions.

"We have reinforced infection control measures in place to protect patients, staff and visitors."

Most Group A Strep infections are relatively mild. The infection can result in a sore throat or skin infection such as impetigo and can also cause respiratory infections.

On rare occasions, the bacteria can cause serious illness. These are known as invasive infections - usually caused when the organism enters the system through an open wound or skin lesion.

The incidence of these more serious infections is very low, with around one to four cases per 100,000 in Scotland.

The invasive infection is most common in the elderly population, in particular those aged 75 and over.

A dedicated telephone line has been set up for patients and relatives who have been in Liberton within the last 30 days and have concerns they would like to discuss.

The numbers are: 0131 537 7891 and 0131 537 7907 and will be open 9am-5pm on Friday and 9am-4pm on Saturday.