Somerset School Forced to Close Following Norovirus Outbreak
A middle school in Somerset has been compelled to shut its doors after a significant outbreak of norovirus spread rapidly through its classrooms, affecting both pupils and staff members. Danesfield Church of England Middle School made the decision to close on Friday, 28th November, in an urgent bid to contain the highly contagious stomach bug and halt its transmission.
Breaking the Chain of Infection
In a letter sent to parents and guardians, the school administration explained that the closure was a necessary measure to "break the chain of infection." While the site is closed, a thorough deep cleaning and disinfection process will be undertaken across the entire school to eliminate any lingering traces of the virus. The school confirmed that during this period, students would continue their education via remote learning arrangements.
Norovirus, often referred to as the winter vomiting bug, is an unpleasant stomach infection that causes sudden onset vomiting and diarrhoea. According to NHS guidance, other symptoms can include a high temperature, aching limbs, and headaches.
Official Advice and Safety Measures
The school's letter provided clear instructions to the community, stating: "Parents and carers are advised to keep children at home if they are experiencing symptoms such as vomiting or diarrhoea and to follow the recommended 48-hour symptom-free period before returning to school." It also requested that parents inform the school if their child requires hospital treatment for their symptoms or is asked to provide a stool sample.
Reiterating the school's position, the letter emphasised that the safety and wellbeing of pupils and staff is the top priority. A spokesperson for Somerset Council also commented on the situation, noting that viruses causing diarrhoea and vomiting are currently in circulation. They stressed the importance of hygiene precautions like hand washing with soap and water to limit the spread, but acknowledged that these infections are notoriously contagious. The council joined the school in wishing everyone a swift recovery.
