Cleadon primary school closed after scarlet fever outbreak

Cleadon Church of England Academy is closed until Tuesday, March 10, for a deep clean. | JPIMedia

A South Tyneside school is closed on March 9, following an outbreak of scarlet fever.

A deep clean of the Cleadon Church of England Academy site, in Boldon Lane, will be carried out after the school was informed of confirmed cases of scarlet fever, a letter to parents has said.

In a urgent email, the academy has reassured parents and carers that the closure is not related to coronavirus and staff aim to reopen the primary school on Tuesday, March 10.

The primary school, which has around 480 pupils on its roll according to Ofsted, has apologised for the inconvenience but has thanked parents for their support.

Replying to parents on social media, a Cleadon Academy spokesman said: “Thank you for the positive messages we have received. Hopefully the measure we are putting in place will reduce the likelihood of the scarlet fever spreading.

“Thank you for your support.”

Scarlet fever is a contagious infection that mostly affects young children. It's easily treated with antibiotics.

Symptoms include flu-like symptoms, high fever and a rash. As the illness is highly infectious it is recommended parents who are concerned call their GP for advice before visiting a practice.