Danesfield Middle School, located near Taunton in Somerset, has temporarily closed after a norovirus outbreak affected both staff and pupils. The school communicated with parents and carers to inform them of the closure, emphasizing that lessons will continue remotely during this period.
While the exact number of individuals infected remains undisclosed, the decision to close stems from a need to break the chain of infection. During the closure, the school will undergo thorough cleaning and disinfection to ensure a safe environment upon reopening.
Norovirus, often known as the winter vomiting bug, causes symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhoea, nausea, high temperature, headaches, and stomach pain. Although unpleasant, symptoms typically resolve within a few days. Anyone exhibiting symptoms should remain at home for at least 48 hours after symptoms cease.
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In a letter to the school community, Danesfield Middle School stated: “Due to a confirmed norovirus outbreak among pupils and staff, we will close on Friday, 28 November to protect everyone’s health and prevent further spread. We are following official guidelines for cleaning and advise parents to keep children home if they experience symptoms. Please ensure children stay off school for 48 hours after symptoms have ended.
If a child is hospitalized with vomiting and diarrhoea, develops a high temperature, has blood in stools, or requires medical testing, parents are requested to notify the school promptly.
Our priority is the safety and wellbeing of all pupils and staff. Closing the school will allow us to perform a deep clean and stop the virus from spreading. We appreciate the understanding and support from parents and the wider community at this time.”
A spokesperson for Somerset Council added: “Viruses causing diarrhoea and vomiting, including norovirus, are currently circulating. While the infections are unpleasant, they are usually self-limiting. Good hygiene, like thorough handwashing with soap and disinfecting surfaces, can help reduce transmission. Children should not return to school until they have been symptom-free for 48 hours. We wish all affected individuals a speedy recovery.”
Amy Douglas, Lead Epidemiologist at the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA), said: “Norovirus cases remain within expected levels, but preventive steps remain crucial. The highest rates right now are among children, so please keep symptomatic children at home until 48 hours after recovery.
If you are unwell, avoid work, food preparation, hospitals, and care homes until 48 hours after symptoms clear to protect others. Washing hands with soap and warm water and using bleach-based cleaners are effective, while alcohol gels do not kill norovirus and should not be relied upon alone.”