‘More Than 100 Children’ Struck By Suspected Norovirus Problems

It has been reported that a large number of children and also some members of staff at St Nicholas Junior School in Dereham have fallen victim to an outbreak of illness at the school in the past week. 

According to the Eastern Daily Press, more than 100 pupils were absent or sent home last Thursday (September 18th) as a result of the problems which have emerged in relation to the school in Norfolk. The reports state that Public Health England has advised the school to keep its doors open and the site underwent a deep clean on Thursday evening as it is suspected that the outbreak is due to norovirus.               

It is understood that pupils in Year 4 have been mainly affected by the problems, which have led to gastric illness symptoms including diarrhoea, vomiting, nausea and headaches. Both those with packed lunches and others who receive school dinners have been affected.

Headteacher Neil Toplis said: “It’s a fairly virulent bug and it’s really quite unusual to have that many children off school at once.”

The reports related to St Nicholas Junior School are just the latest in a series related to illness issues at schools, with Ysgol Brynrefail high school in Llanrug, Gwynedd and St Clare’s School in Derby also being affected by similar issues in recent weeks.

Expert Opinion

It is a significant concern to see reports of yet another illness outbreak at a school, as we have seen a worrying trend through recent weeks. <br/> <br/>"Our work helping victims of illness outbreaks in the UK and abroad to gain justice and vital financial support after such issues means we understand the significant impact such issues can have on people of all ages. <br/> <br/>"Unfortunately, gastric illness can to lead to other longer-term problems which can have a major impact on a sufferer’s health. <br/> <br/>"Many parents, staff and pupils will be worried by the scale of this latest outbreak and will be keen for answers regarding how it emerged. Where possible, lessons must be learned which can be shared in the education sector and wider to ensure that the risk of a repeat of problems can be minimised." Amandeep Dhillon - Partner