Paxman Academy, Colchester, confirms Scarlet Fever case

Fiona Pierson, head of Paxman Academy, in Colchester, stated a child has been confirmed to have the infection.

In a letter to families, seen by the Gazette, she stated guidance is now being followed.

It reads: “We have been informed that a child who attends Paxman Academy has been diagnosed with confirmed Scarlet Fever.

“We have followed the guidance issued to us by Essex Local Authority [Essex County Council] and reported cases to the East of England Health Protection Team.”

School - Paxman Academy (Image: CLARE BANKS)

All schools across the county have been contacted by the UK Health Security Agency in response to a growing number of Scarlet Fever and Strep A cases.

An Essex County Council spokesman said: “Schools have been sent resources directly from UKHSA and ECC is reiterating this advice to all schools in Essex.”

UKHSA guidance warns that Strep A infections can spread through table tops, taps and handles.

Health chiefs have urged schools to “enforce” hand-washing programmes.

On Tuesday, Colchester’s Home Farm Primary School headteacher Richard Potter said “a small number” of children had also caught the infection.

Paxman Academy has been contacted for comment.