Two pupils from a Merseyside Primary School have tragically died after an infection outbreak closed the school.
The pupils, aged just 5 and 6, attended Millstead Primary School in Everton, Merseyside, which was tackling an outbreak of an infectious stomach bug.
The infection outbreak related to Giardiasis, an infection of the digestive system caused by tiny parasites known as giardia lamblia. It can cause diarrhoea and stomach cramps and is often successfully treated with antibiotics.
Speaking after the tragic deaths, headteacher Michelle Beard said the school community was “devastated.”
Ms Beard added:
“Both children filled their classes with joy during their time with us, and they will forever be in our hearts. We are working closely with our families, staff and pupils to support them as we come to terms with this terribly sad news.”
Infection outbreak may not have caused deaths
The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) said in a statement that, while the causes of the tragic deaths have not yet been confirmed, they are “unlikely to be due to Giardia.”
A spokesperson explained that the infection “usually causes a self-limiting gastrointestinal illness which can spread easily in households and school settings.”
The UKHSA’s Consultant in Health Protection for the Cheshire and Merseyside Health Protection Team, Emma Savage, confirmed that investigations were “ongoing” and that they were advising the school and parents.
Ms Savage added: “Public health measures have been put in place to help prevent further cases.”
Prevent infection outbreaks
Giardiasis infection outbreaks can be caused by direct contact with infected people or animals, or from swallowing contaminated water, food or drinks.
With treatment, symptoms should usually stop within a week, but can sometimes last longer.
Health advice states that infection outbreaks can be prevented by regularly and thoroughly washing hands with soap and water, especially after toileting and before handling and eating food.
Children should always be encouraged to wash their hands regularly.
Training in infection control and other safety measures
First Response Training (FRT) is a leading national training provider delivering courses in subjects such as health and safety, first aid, fire safety, manual handling, food hygiene, infection control, mental health, health and social care, safeguarding and more.
They work with a large number of early years, schools and childcare providers, as well as colleges, youth groups and children’s services.
Their courses include Safeguarding Children, Health and Safety for Child Carers, Risk Assessment for Child Carers, Paediatric First Aid Training, and many more.
A trainer from FRT says:
“Infection outbreaks can be very common in schools, where there are high numbers of people mixing in close proximity day after day.
“Teachers and other school staff should be aware of common infections, control measures to try to prevent the spread of infection and common signs and symptoms of such infections. Schools should provide relevant guidance to parents where possible and appropriate.
“Small children can sometimes be more vulnerable in infection outbreaks as they may have less immunity, are weaker and are maybe less likely to be stringent in their hygiene practices. This is where those responsible for looking after the health, safety and welfare of children come in.”
For more information on the training that FRT can provide, please call them today on freephone 0800 310 2300 or send an e-mail to info@firstresponsetraining.com.