A PRIMARY school near York has closed this lunchtime due to what is thought to be an outbreak of norovirus.

Copmanthorpe Primary School shut at noon today and will remain closed until Thursday morning following the suspected outbreak of what is also called the "winter vomiting bug," which has affected more than 50 pupils and staff at the school.

A City of York Council spokeswoman said: “We can confirm that Copmanthorpe Primary School will close at 12 noon today, reopening on Thursday morning, following a suspected norovirus outbreak.

“The decision to close the school was taken following consultation with the council’s public health team and Public Health England, and will enable a full deep clean of the school buildings and equipment to be carried out.

“Over 50 pupils and staff have been affected by the outbreak so far.”

The school has about 384 pupils and its headteacher is Jenny Rogers.

Norovirus is a stomach bug that causes vomiting and diarrhoea. It can be very unpleasant, but usually goes away in about two days.

The main symptoms of norovirus are nausea, diarrhoea and vomiting. It may also be accomanied by a high temperature of 38C or above, a headache and aching arms and legs.

You can usually treat yourself or your child at home.

Anyone with norovirus should stay off school or work until the symptoms have stopped for two days. You must alsop avoid visiting anyone in hospital during this time.

You can catch norovirus from: close contact with someone with norovirus, touching surfaces or objects that have been touched by someone with norovirus and eating food that has been prepared or handled by someone with norovirus.

Washing your hands frequently with soap and water is the best way to stop it spreading. Alcohol hand gels don't kill norovirus.