Flu Outbreak Closes Caerphilly School, Affects 250 Students and Staff
A significant health crisis has impacted St Martin’s School in Caerphilly, prompting its temporary closure. A total of 254 individuals, including 242 students and 12 staff members, have reported various flu-like symptoms.
Symptoms and Impact on the School Community
The affected individuals have exhibited symptoms such as:
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- High fevers
- Coughing
- Headaches
- Fatigue
- General flu-like effects
Mr. Lee Jarvis, head teacher, indicated that the average recovery time for those afflicted seems to be around seven days. This situation has led to the decision to close the school temporarily.
Closure Plans and Next Steps
The school will undergo a thorough deep cleaning to mitigate further transmission of the illness. The expected date for reopening is Tuesday, December 9. However, Mr. Jarvis has stated that the school administration will closely monitor the situation and provide updates to families as necessary.
Advice for Parents
In light of these events, parents are urged to keep their children at home if they display any symptoms, even mild ones. Public Health Wales has been in communication with the school, confirming that a risk assessment has been conducted prior to this decision.
The health and safety of students and staff remain the top priority for St Martin’s School during this flu outbreak.
