Swine flu in Mexico
LEGAL advice on dealing with swine flu was issued to private schools across the country yesterday, as it was confirmed that another person has the virus.
The Department of Health said an adult in the South East of England had been diagnosed, bringing the total number of confirmed cases in the UK to 28.
Earlier yesterday, the Independent Schools Council issued guidance to more than 1,200 fee-paying schools, suggesting they consider setting up “quarantine rooms” for pupils suspected of having the virus.
It comes after five schools, including three private schools, closed because pupils fell ill with the H1N1 virus.
A Department of Health spokesman said the latest case was “associated with travel to Mexico''.
He said: “It is right that we are preparing for the possibility of a global pandemic.
“The UK’s arrangements are continuing to ensure that we are well-placed to deal with this new infection.”
Schools hit by swine flu are rescheduling GCSEs and A-Levels or asking for special consideration for pupils as the summer exam season begins.
The Independent Schools Council’s (ISC) advice, drawn up by lawyers Veale Wasbrough, says schools should provide a policy on what to do in case of a pandemic.