An outbreak of gastroenteritis prompted Tenby VC primary school’s head to write to parents, after a mixture of staff and pupils were forced off sick with the virus.

In the letter, headteacher Mr. David Palmer stated: “I am writing to let you know that a number of children and staff at school/nursery have had gastroenteritis over the last few days.

“I have been advised by the Health Protection Team and Environmental Health departments that this is a mild illness probably caused by a virus, but that it is very infectious.

“If your child is affected, please keep him or her off school/nursery. He or she should not return until 48 hours after the diarrhoea and vomiting have stopped. The virus is easily spread from person to person.

The most usual symptom of gastroenteritis is vomiting, whilst some people may experience diarrhoea and/or abdominal pain.

Symptoms rarely last for more than 24 to 48 hours and the incubation period (time it takes for the illness to develop) is between 24 and 48 hours.

“We are ensuring the school/nursery is thoroughly cleaned to reduce any further risk and have followed the strict guidance received from the Health Protection Team,” continued Mr. Palmer.

A spokesperson for Pembrokeshire County Council, said: “The County Council was made aware of the situation.

“The school sought advice from Public Health Wales and followed the guidelines issued.

“Since the beginning of the week, the school roll has returned to almost normal levels.”

Anyone seeking further advice can phone NHS Direct on 0845 46 47.