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Eton forced to close over swine flu outbreak
28 May 2009Eton, one of the country's top public schools, has closed after a pupil was diagnosed with swine flu
The Berkshire school was informed yesterday that a 13-year-old boy had tested positive and was advised by health authorities to shut until June 7.
A spokesman for the public school today announced that it had taken the decision to close.
It comes as the Health Protection Agency announced a further 17 cases in the UK today, bringing the total to 203.
A spokesman for Eton, in Windsor, said: "The boy has a mild illness and is now recovering at home.
"The school is currently closed for half term and had been due to re-open on Sunday May 31.
"The Health Protection Agency has strongly advised that the school should close in line with national guidance.
"Following discussion with the HPA the school plans to remain closed until June 7, and boys who are due to sit public examinations will be allowed to return under controlled conditions.
"The HPA is following up pupils who have been in contact with the boy that tested positive.
"The objective is to minimise the risk of spread of infection, while allowing boys to take their public examinations."
The school's former pupils include Princes William and Harry.
Reader views (1)
Eton is NOT "one of the country's top public schools". It is THE top public school....
If this had happened at Harrow, do you think it would be in the world's press?
- Johnc, london, 28/05/2009 21:31
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