PITTENCRIEFF Primary School will be closed today (Thursday) for a deep clean following an outbreak of norovirus, the winter vomiting bug.

Due to a high number of pupils showing symptoms of the illness, the school's headteacher has decided to take precautionary measures by closing the school.

Dr Margaret Hannah, NHS Fife deputy director of public health, said, "Norovirus affects people of all ages and is easily transmitted from person to person.

"Typical symptoms are vomiting and diarrhoea, which can last from 12 to 60 hours.

"Although unpleasant, most people recover very quickly.

"Good hygiene helps prevent the spread of infection, with hand washing especially important.

"Children should avoid attending nursery or school and adults should stay away from work until they are clear of symptoms for 48 hours.

"There is no specific treatment, however, it is important to drink plenty of fluids to avoid dehydration."

As an added precaution, the school will undergo a thorough deep clean before pupils return on Friday.

Another preventative deep clean of the school will be undertaken in a couple of weeks when it is felt that the virus has passed.

Parents and carers are reminded to keep children who are showing signs of feeling unwell at home, particularly where the child has already been sick, for a period of 48 hours from the last bout of sickness. This will help to ensure that a further outbreak is avoided.

Pittencrieff is the second Dunfermline school to be shut this week. Woodmill High's additional support needs department was closed yesterday (Wednesday) due to heating problems but reopened today.