Hill Top C of E Primary will have a 'thorough deep clean'

Hill Top C of E Primary School in Low Moor was forced to close on Tuesday after a risk assessment raised concerns about pupil safety.

The school said a risk assessment carried out alongside Bradford Council advisors "highlighted concerns regarding the well-being and safeguarding of children in school".

The decision to close was made due to a lack of staffing and a "significant amount of sickness of staff and children".

In the latest update, a spokesperson for the school told the T&A: “The school is currently closed as a precaution after a number of staff and pupils have become unwell. The school has taken advice from Public Health and will undergo a thorough deep clean.”

The closure comes after the Bradford Council's public health team issued a warning to those who may be experiencing vomiting, diarrhoea, or flu-like symptoms.

They have been asked to avoid visiting friends or relatives in hospital or residential and nursing homes.

A generic image of a child lying down on a sofa (Image: Pixabay) Anyone unsure whether they are safe to visit these types of places should make a phone call first.

People with these symptoms and feel they need to visit their GP’s surgery should also phone for advice first.

Rose Dunlop, interim director of public health at Bradford Council, said: “As we come into winter, we always see an increase in illnesses such as flu, norovirus, coughs, and colds.

"If you become unwell with sickness or diarrhoea, it’s important to drink plenty of fluids and stay off school or work until you've not been sick or had diarrhoea for at least two days.

"If someone in your household becomes unwell clean toilet seats, flush handles, taps, surfaces and door handles every day and wash any soiled clothing and bedding separately in hot water and avoid sharing towels and household utensils where possible.

• Norovirus symptoms to look out for and how to treat the bug at home

“Good hand washing with soap and warm water is the most effective way to prevent the spread of infections especially during winter, always wash hands after visits to the toilet, and before preparing or eating food.

"Encourage children to wash their hands frequently and to use tissues when coughing or sneezing and for younger children take time to teach them how to wash their hands with soap and warm water.”

"If you have vomiting or diarrhoea, or flu-like symptoms, don’t visit friends or relatives in hospital or residential and nursing homes – ring them first. Avoid visiting your GP’s surgery – it is much better to phone for advice first.”