Reports Reveal Pupils And Staff Affected By Outbreak

Authorities have begun investigations after it was revealed a large number of pupils and staff at Oxgangs Primary School in Edinburgh had been affected by a suspected norovirus outbreak at the site.

Edinburgh City Council has confirmed that the school on Oxgangs Road North has been closed until Monday (December 8th) on the advice of environmental health specialists and a deep clean is now taking place.

It is believed that 150 children and 14 staff have been affected by the problems, which include gastric symptoms such as sickness and diarrhoea.

Andy Gray, head of schools and community services at Edinburgh City Council said: “We realise that closing the school presents difficulties for parents but it is an essential course of action to deal with the outbreak."

NHS Lothian also revealed parents have been advised to ensure their families wash hands frequently in an effort to prevent the spread of the illness.

Expert Opinion

It is very worrying to see reports emerge on these illness problems, particularly considering the extent and number of pupils and members of staff from the school who have been affected. <br/> <br/>"Through our work on a number of major illness cases, including the fatal Legionnaires’ outbreak in Edinburgh two years ago, we understand at this stage that the ultimate priority is ensuring everything possible is done to prevent the further spread of the illness. As a result, the decision to undertake a deep clean is very welcome. <br/> <br/>"Following that, it is clear that attention must turn to the issue of how these problems emerged, with a thorough investigation being undertaken to examine the circumstances related to it. <br/> <br/>"Our experience in similar cases means we have seen just how serious such problems can be, often leaving victims with long-term health issues from which they never fully recover. Many pupils, staff and their families will be keen for answers regarding this and it is vital everything possible is done to provide these to them."