A SECOND school in Chard has had a pupil confirmed as having swine flu.

Manor Court Community Primary School released a statement last week confirming that a year four pupil had contracted the disease.

“They are being treated and are expected to make a full recovery,” said head teacher Liz Rosser.

“The school has been liasing with the Dorset and Somerset Heath Protection Unit and NHS Somerset.

“The school will remain open as usual. As swine flu is now circulating in the community, closing down a school would not necessarily help as people could still be exposed to the virus outside the school.

“Children who have symptoms suggestive of a flu-like illness should stay away from school until they are completely well or advised they can return by a medical professional.”

Last week, Holyrood Community School in Chard confirmed it had a year nine pupil who had been diagnosed with swine flu, and a year ten girl at Wadham Community School in Crewkerne had also been affected.

Ashlands First School in Crewkerne has also suffered, with two pupils and a teacher reported to have been struck down by the pandemic sweeping across the country.

Although cases of swine flu are no longer being confirmed due to the volumes of people affected, there were an estimated 55,000 new cases in the UK last week, and 29 people have died so far.

If your child shows any signs of flu-like symptoms with a fever, aches and pains, and a cough, cold or runny nose, please contact NHS Direct on 0845-4647 or the Swine Flu information line on 0800-1513513.