South Shields secondary school closed for deep clean following sickness bug outbreak

Figures from Public Health England suggest 60 schools in the North East are reporting absences due to symptoms of likely viral illness including

influenza (flu) and norovirus.

Earlier this week two schools in Jarrow were also closed for a deep clean following a similar outbreak.

In a letter to parents, executive headteacher Brendan Tapping said: “Unfortunately, due to a significant increase in the number of students reporting symptoms including fever, sore throat and vomiting this morning, St Wilfrid’s RC College will be closed tomorrow, Friday 22 November 2019.

“This will allow us to complete a deep clean of the school and enable us to reopen the school on Monday 25 November 2019.

“If your son or daughter begins to display any symptoms similar to those mentioned above, it is essential that they do not return to school until they have fully recovered.

“We apologise in advance for the inconvenience this may cause, however I am sure you understand the reasons for this one day closure.”

Public Health England North East’s health protection team is working with local authorities across the region after receiving reports from schools of flu and other winter viral illnesses amongst pupils.

Dr Gayle Dolan, Consultant in Health Protection for PHE NE, said: “Around 60 schools across the region are reporting absences due to symptoms of likely viral illness including influenza (flu) and norovirus.

“We expect viral illnesses of this kind to circulate in schools and the community at this time of year and we have been providing advice to parents and schools to help reduce the spread of infection.

“Flu can be extremely unpleasant for young children but for most healthy people it is a self-limiting illness. Some people including older people, those with long-term medical conditions or weakened immune systems can be more at risk of developing complications and should seek prompt medical assessment if they develop symptoms of flu.”

Flu vaccinations and good hygiene practice are recommended to help stop the spread of infection.