An outbreak of scabies among school pupils has forced parents to keep their children at home.
Belfairs High School, in Highlands Boulevard, Leigh, detected scabies in a group of about 12 students from year 11, it was revealed today.
The school nurse learned two siblings had been diagnosed with the highly contagious infection after noticing a red rash on their skin. The infection causes severe itching but no long-lasting effects.
The school called an assembly and wrote to parents about the outbreak, which was discovered a week ago.
Headteacher John Duprey said the school had managed to control the spread of infection by keeping those diagnosed with it away.
Students approaching exams were continuing their course work at home.
Mr Duprey added: "Whatever is going around in the community tends to find its way into schools."
Published Wednesday January 21, 2004
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