School closed due to norovirus outbreak

Danesfield Middle School in Williton, Taunton, is closed due to a norovirus outbreak

A middle school in Somerset has closed due to a norovirus outbreak among its pupils and staff.

Danesfield Middle School in Williton closed earlier and has said its pupils will be taught remotely for the day.

The school has not confirmed how many of its staff and pupils have contracted the winter vomiting bug but said the closure aimed to "prevent further spread of the virus".

"Closing the school will allow us to carry out a deep clean and break the chain of infection," a spokesperson added.

Somerset Council's public health team has been contacted for a comment.

According to the NHS, norovirus is a stomach bug that causes vomiting and diarrhoea.

Other symptoms include a high temperature, a headache, tummy pain or body aches and pains. People usually recover after two to three days.

The school advised parents and carers to keep children at home if they are experiencing norovirus symptoms.

A spokesperson said the school would "provide further details" on the closure to parents through its communication channels later.

"We appreciate the support and understanding of our parents and the wider community during this time," they added.