A TEENAGE boy from Colne Community School has become the latest youth to be diagnosed with swine flu.

A sixth former from the Brightlingsea school was yesterday recovering at home after he was confirmed as having the virus.

Assistant principal Sue Keeble said an extra cleaner had been employed to ensure the Church Road school was ultra-clean.

She said: “We’ve got one confirmed case in the Sixth Form and we’re following the guidance.

On Monday, Elmstead Primary School confirmed seven youngsters had picked up swine flu.

Chief medical officer Sir Liam Donaldson said he believed it would affect children more, as older people who had suffered from a similar bug decades ago may be immune.

Steven Clark, headteacher of the Tabor Science College, in Braintree, said: “We’re waiting for the inevitable first case. As and when we get an outbreak, we will follow the guidelines.”

Health bosses are refusing to reveal how many people have the virus in and around Colchester.

They are advising parents who believe their child may have swine flu to stay away from hospitals or their GP.

Instead, they should visit nhs.uk or call NHS Direct on 0845 4647 to check symptoms and then contact their doctor by phone, Mike Gogarty, director of public health for NHS North East Essex, said: “You should also prepare now by confirming a network of ‘flu friends’, who could collect medicines and other supplies so you do not have to leave home and spread the virus.

“Please consider neighbours, especially older people living alone, and offer to be their flu friend as well.”

Staff at Essex County Council and Braintree Council have also been diagnosed with swine flu.