City Council Informs Parents Of Issues At Mason Moor Primary School

Mason Moor Primary School in Southampton has been closed after legionella bacteria was located in its water system during recent checks at the site.

The school closed at the end of last week as a result of the problems and in a letter to parents, Southampton City Council outlined that work is being undertaken to disinfect the system and resolve the issue.

It has been stressed that children were at low risk of infection and parents should not be concerned, although they were urged to contact their GP if they begin to have concerns regarding their child’s health.

The school is expected to receive test results in relation to the issue today (15 January) and the site is expected to re-open tomorrow.

More updates are set to be posted on the school’s website.

Expert Opinion

Through our work acting for victims of legionnaires’ disease outbreaks in locations such as Stoke and Edinburgh, we have seen first-hand the terrible impact that such problems can have on victims. <br/> <br/>"It is very welcome to see the council take this precautionary step and ensure that the safety of pupils and school staff comes first. However, we hope that some thought is given as to how bacteria levels have been able to move beyond the acceptable threshold. <br/> <br/>"There are clear hygiene standards in place regarding the management of legionella bacteria and it is vital that examination of whether such regulations should be amended to improve safety levels. <br/> <br/>"We hope that all of the pupils and staff affected by this recent issue are able to return to the school safe in the knowledge they do not face potential harm." Suki Chhokar - Partner