Two children have died amid an infectious bug outbreak at a primary school.
The pair, who are believed to be five and six years old, were pupils at Millstead School, in Everton, Merseyside.
UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) North West has been working with Liverpool City Council and partners following a number of cases of giardiasis linked to the school.
Giardiasis is an infection of the digestive system caused by tiny parasites known as giardia lamblia.
The infection can cause symptoms such as diarrhoea, stomach cramps, flatulence and bloating but it is generally not a serious risk to health and can be treated easily with antibiotics.
Emma Savage, a consultant in health protection for Cheshire and Merseyside health protection team, said: “UKHSA are aware of the sad deaths of two children who attend Millstead primary school and our thoughts are with the family, friends and school community.
“The deaths are unlikely to be due to giardia. Giardia usually causes a self-limiting gastrointestinal illness which can spread easily in households and school settings. “
Ms Savage added: “Investigations are ongoing, and we have provided information and advice to the school and parents.
“Public health measures have been put in place to help prevent further cases.”
The cause of the deaths is not yet known, a spokesman for the UKHSA told The Telegraph. Merseyside police said that the force is not investigating the deaths.
The headteacher at Millstead Primary School said that the community is “devastated” by the deaths and that both pupils had “filled their classes with joy”.
Giardiasis can be spread by direct contact with infected people or animals, or from swallowing contaminated water, food or drinks.
Any parents concerned that they or their child is displaying symptoms are being urged to contact health specialists.
The Liverpool Echo first reported on the suspected giardia outbreak at Millstead last month, with public health measures put in place to try and tackle the number of infections linked to the school, which caters for children with special educational needs.
The newspaper understands that the school closed for a week as it attempted to break the growth in infections.
Speaking about the deaths of the two young children who attended her school, Michelle Beard, the headteacher of Millstead, said: “The entire Millstead School community is devastated to have learned of the sad recent passing of two of our younger children.
“We have sent our sincerest condolences to both of their families. Both children filled their classes with joy during their time with us, and they will forever be in our hearts. We are working closely with our families, staff and pupils to support them as we come to terms with this terribly sad news.”
Millstead School declined to comment when contacted by The Telegraph.
