A PUPIL at a primary school in East Cambridgeshire has tested positive for swine flu. Burwell Village College (Primary) confirmed that a pupil in Year 4 had tested positive for the virus earlier this week, the first recognised case of the pandemic flu i

A PUPIL at a primary school in East Cambridgeshire has tested positive for swine flu.

Burwell Village College (Primary) confirmed that a pupil in Year 4 had tested positive for the virus earlier this week, the first recognised case of the pandemic flu in East Cambridgeshire.

The child concerned is receiving anti-viral treatment at home and is said to be recovering. Close contacts of the pupil will also be receiving the Tamiflu anti-viral drugs as a precaution.

Following a detailed risk assessment, the Health Protection Agency together with other local authorities, decided that the school should remain open as normal, though the decision remains under constant review in the event that more pupils should contract the virus.

News that a child in the school had tested positive for swine-flu was revealed to parents in a letter issued by the school on Tuesday evening (June 16).

The letter, as well as confirming that a child had contracted the virus, warned parents that if their child started to display any 'flu-like' symptoms they should remain at home and contact their GP.

A spokeswoman for the Health Protection Agency said: "The Health Protection Agency (HPA) has confirmed a case of swine flu H1N1 in a pupil at Burwell Village College Primary school.

"The child is receiving the appropriate medical care and recovering at home. Close contacts of the pupil will be offered antiviral drugs as a precaution.

Following a risk assessment carried out by the Health Protection Agency in liaison with NHS Cambridgeshire and the local authority, the school has been advised that at present no further actions are necessary and the school will remain open as usual.

The Health Protection Agency is working closely with the school and NHS colleagues to monitor the situation."

INFO: For more information about swine flu call the national information line on 0800 1513513 or visit the Health Protection Agency website at: www.hpa.org.uk

Good basic hygiene call help to reduce transmission of the virus, including covering your nose and mouth while coughing or sneezing and disposing of tissues promptly. Washing hands frequently with soap and water will help to reduce spread of the virus.