Children and staff were sent home from a school in Hounslow after an outbreak of Norovirus.

Hounslow Heath Infant and Nursery School has been temporarily closed down after a large number of pupils and staff were taken ill on Thursday (January 7).

The first week back to school was cut short for everyone at the school on Martindale Road as many came down with what is believed to be Norovirus - the winter vomiting bug.

The school remains closed today, Friday (January 8), and will undergo a deep clean over the weekend to ensure the entire school including classrooms, resources and surfaces are completely disinfected.

A message on the school’s website reads: “Please do not send your child/children into school from Monday January 11 if they still have any symptoms of vomiting or diarrhoea.

“Children must only come to school if they have had a full 48 hours (two days) of no sickness.

“We are very sorry for the inconvenience but we are sure you will support the need for the school to prioritise the health of our children and staff.”

Parents have been given a letter with information and advice from Public Health England.

Signs and Symptoms of Norovirus:

Diarrhoea

Vomiting

Nausea

Abdominal Pain

Muscle ache

Headaches

Fever

Helpful Norovirus tips:

Wash hands thoroughly

Frequent disinfection of all surfaces

Avoid raw or unwashed foods

Norovirus lasts up to two days but people mus stay away from work or school for a further 48 hours after the last symptoms

Avoid contact with others as much as possible

People are advised to drink plenty of water to help avoid diarrhoea related dehydration.