WINTER illnesses are starting to take a grip on the Bradford district with a hospital reporting an outbreak of Norovirus and a city school battling against a flu outbreak.

Dozens of pupils have been off sick after developing flu symptoms and 14 members of staff at Hill Top Primary School, in Low Moor, Bradford, have also been forced to take time off with the symptoms.

Yesterday, another seven new cases were reported, with total pupil absences since the start of the outbreak fluctuating between around 40 and 60.

Education service staff hope the outbreak has now passed its peak, but accepted it was too early to know.

Michael Jameson, strategic director of children’s services at Bradford Council, said: "We are aware of a flu outbreak among some students and staff at Hill Top Primary School. Some of those involved have been tested and this confirmed they have the seasonal flu virus.

"The school is successfully managing the situation and working closely with Public Health England and Bradford Council to ensure the welfare of everyone at the school.

"Parents are being reminded that children and adults with flu-like symptoms should remain at home, get plenty of rest, drink plenty of fluids and use over-the-counter remedies such as paracetamol, checking it's suitable for their age.

"They can also prevent the spread of the virus by always carrying a tissue and using them to catch coughs or sneezes, then disposing of the tissue. Regularly washing your hands with soap and warm water or an alcohol hand gel can also help prevent the spread of the virus.”

At Airedale Hospital, staff have asked that patients displaying the symptoms of diarrhoea or sickness stay away from the hospital to avoid the possibility of spreading the disease.

They have two wards affected by Norovirus, with 16 patients involved.

Director of Operations Stacey Hunter said: "Although this has been a concern for us, we have put measures in place to contain the virus and the situation is improving.

“In general, the recent cold spell seems to have had an impact on frail elderly people who are coming to us as they are more poorly than during previous weeks.

“Members of the public can really help us not visiting our hospital if they have symptoms of diarrhoea and, or vomiting to avoid spreading the virus particularly to vulnerable people. The best thing you can do to protect your loved ones is to delay any visits until you are fully recovered and have been symptom free for two days.

“It is really important to make sure you thoroughly wash your hands regularly to prevent further spread of the infection.”

If you think you may be affected by norovirus, stay at home and contact NHS 111 for advice and help accessing the local service that can help you best.

Bradford Royal Infirmary has escaped any serious problems, reporting four beds closed due to viral gastroenteritis at this point.