Outbreak Prompts Deep Clean Of School With 250 Pupils

More than 30 pupils at a primary school in Shrewsbury have been struck down by an outbreak of sickness causing symptoms such as vomiting and diarrhoea.

The Shropshire Star reports that The Grange Primary School in Harlescott, which is attended by 250 pupils, is to undergo a deep clean this weekend.

Following advice from public health officials, particular attention will be paid to doorknobs and work surfaces and the cleaners will be using bleach. Children affected by the illness have also been told to stay away from school for 48 hours.

"I have no concerns about the general level of cleanliness within the school," headteacher Marie Sibley told the newspaper.

"We are dealing with this situation. It is an outbreak of sickness and diarrhoea but we are not the only school to be experiencing this. I know there are other reports within the area."                                    

Expert Opinion

It is worrying to hear these concerns emerge, with this being just the latest in series of schools which have been affected by outbreaks of illness which have been reported in the news including St Nicholas Junior School In Dereham and Birchensale Middle School In Redditch. <br/> <br/>"The impact that such illness can have on pupils, teachers and support staff should not be underestimated. Such illnesses can cause significant disruption to their lives. As a result, it is vital that steps are taken to gain a proper understanding of how these problems emerged and what can be done to prevent such issues being repeated in the future." Amandeep Dhillon - Partner