An infant school in Waltham Abbey has confirmed that one of its a pupils has caught swine flu.

The year two pupil at the Waltham Cross Holy Infant School in Quendon Drive, Waltham Abbey was diagnosed with the H1N1 virus at the start of the week after returning home from holiday in America.

The girl, thought to be six or seven, has been kept at home where she is receiving treatment.

The school, which also shares a site with Waltham Cross Junior school has taken preventative measures to contain the virus.

The knock-on effect means the previous year's school leavers have been unable to visit their new classes and look around their new school.

One parent, who did not wish to be named said: “It's awful, the kids are worried that they're all going to get ill.

"My child is one of those due to go across to the junior school next year and we feel like we've been kept in the dark about it.”

Holy Cross Infant school Headteacher Ms Deirdre Mooney confirmed that one girl was suffering from the disease, which has already claimed almost 700 lives worldwide.

She said: “We have a pupil who caught it on holiday, but she hasn't been back at school, she has not been in contact with the other students.

"As far as I know she is recovering but it would be unfair of me to comment on that pupils behalf.

“We sent letters home to the parents and we have had no other suspected cases since.”

Headteacher of the neighbouring Junior School, Mrs Diane Stygal said both schools were following advice from the local health authorities to try to keep the virus contained, but added that they would remain open until the end of the summer term.

She said: “They are the children that are due to come to us next year, we were told that the case was confirmed on Monday.

“I have a duty of care to my pupils and staff.

"The children do not mix at playtimes and we are trying to keep the two groups separate from each other.

“I know that the disruption has been difficult but we have said that the first day of the next term will be altered to allow them to get used to their new class.”

Essex County Council confirmed there was one case at the school, but that Holy Cross infants was not the first school based case in the Epping Forest District.

A spokesman said: “Essex County Council is currently supporting and advising a number of schools across the county with confirmed cases of swine flu. “ Are you a parent at Holy Cross school or do you have a child suffering from swine flu?

If so contact the newsdesk on 01992 563 123.