At least one child at Hillaby Turner’s Hall Primary School has tested positive for scarlet fever, but the Ministry of Health and Wellness says there is no need for it to be closed.
A statement issued by the Chief Medical Officer, Dr The Most Honourable Kenneth George stated there was also evidence of a past dengue fever infection in three children, based on laboratory results.
Parents at the school have reported illness with symptoms including rash and fever. There was a lone case of Group A Streptococcus (Scarlet Fever) which is spread through person-to-person contact, particularly via respiratory droplets and close contact, but within 24 hours of commencing anti-biotics, children were no longer deemed infectious, the Ministry also said.
“The current situation does not indicate an unusual outbreak pattern within the school setting. The Ministry of Health and Wellness reminds the public that schools are part of the wider community and illnesses can be introduced into the environment from time to time resulting in outbreaks,” the statement noted.
“Standard public health measures remain appropriate and effective, including good hand hygiene, respiratory etiquette, regular cleaning of classroom surfaces, and continued attention to mosquito bite prevention in the wider community. The Ministry of Education Transformation has implemented the recommended measures.”
Parents were also reminded children who were unwell should remain at home and only return once they were medically assessed and cleared.
“From a public health perspective there is no need for closure of the school at this time,” the statement said, adding the Ministry of Health would continue to monitor the situation and provide the necessary support. (PR/SAT)
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