Schools hit by vomiting bug

60 people have been effected in 2 Devon primary schools

60 pupils and staff at Westclyst and Broadclyst Primary Schools are suffering with sickness. 

Public Health England is now working with Devon County Council to establish if it is Norovirus. 

One parent reports it being like a horror film with children walking out holding sick buckets. 

In a statement, Nick Young, Consultant in Health Protection for Public Health England South West, said:

“We are currently working with the schools to reduce the risk of ongoing infection from likely norovirus infection.”

“Norovirus infection leads to diarrhoea, vomiting and abdominal or stomach cramps that people tend to recover from quickly. If affected, it is important to drink plenty of water to avoid dehydration.

“To reduce the risk to others, stay off nursery, school or work, avoid preparing food and minimise direct contact with others until 48 hours after your symptoms have stopped.

“Do not visit your GP but do contact them if your symptoms go on for more than a few days or if you also have a serious illness. Babies and young children with Norovirus can still drink milk.”

“The most effective way to respond to an outbreak is to clean and disinfect contaminated areas very thoroughly and to institute good hygiene measures including hand-washing. The school have taken these measures and issued advice to children, parents and staff.”
 

Outbreaks can be difficult to control because norovirus is easily transmitted from one person to another and the virus can survive in the environment.