Swine Flu in Ottery

SWINE Flu has reached Ottery and three local schoolchildren have been diagnosed with the virus.

SWINE Flu has reached Ottery and three local schoolchildren have been diagnosed with the virus.

The Herald today spoke to an adult sufferer who said several of her friends were also stricken with the illness.

Headteachers at The King's School and West Hill Primary School told the Herald that it is "business as usual" despite confirmation at the end of last week that pupils had been suffering from the illness.

West Hill head Sue Nield said its one confirmed sufferer had "fully recovered" and was back at school, while Faith Jarrett, headteacher at The King's School, said there had been two confirmed cases last week but none since.

Both heads said the schools were closely monitoring advice from the local authority and the Health Protection Agency and had written to parents with updates and advice about the pandemic.

There have been no cases at Tipton St John Primary School. Nobody from Ottery Primary School was available for comment.

The Government confirmed last week the emergency response to swine flu would be moved to a so-called treatment phase, an acknowledgement the virus can no longer be contained.

People who report symptoms will no longer be tested to relieve pressure on the health service and, instead of visiting local doctors surgeries, have been asked to stay at home and call the NHS.

Anyone concerned about the virus can contact the swine flu information line on 08001 513 513 or visit www.nhs.uk for general information.