The HSE and Department of Education and Skills are urging parents of children with flu symptoms to keep them home from school as a particular strain of flu virus is disproportionately affecting people under 15 years of age.

The unusually high number of children contracting the B strain of influenza has caused much concern amongst top HSE officials with doctors warning that the virus could spread rapidly in schools.

If children present with symptoms of illness during the day they will be sent home immediately to avoid the spread of viruses. If children are absent due to illness, please ensure that children are fully better before returning to school.