Friday 13th December 2013

13th December 2013

Dear Parents/Carers,

Thank you for all your support for the Friends of Dame Tipping Christmas Fayre, where £900 was raised. This does not include money for the raffle tickets (which are still on sale and can be obtained from the office!).

Next week will be a busy one, so here are the dates!

Monday 16th December

Classes 3 and 4 will perform a dress rehearsal for the older children to watch.

Tuesday 17th December

Class 3 and 4 Nativity play for parents and carers of the children in these classes - two performances - 9.30 am and 1.30 pm

Wednesday 18th December

Christmas Lunch

Thursday 19th December

Christmas Party in the afternoon

Friday 20th December

School closes at 1.30 pm. Please collect your child/ren and take them up to St. John’s Church for our family Christmas service which begins at 2.00 pm.

Following the service, the Friends of Dame Tipping will distribute Christmas gifts to the children.

Several children in Classes 2 and 3 have been diagnosed with “Slapped Cheek Syndrome”. This is not dangerous and as long as the children feel well, they can come to school. I attach an information sheet.

Best wishes,

V. A. Morris

Slapped Cheek Syndrome

Slapped cheek syndrome (also known as “fifth disease”) is a type of viral infection that is most common in children, although it can affect anyone of any age. 

Slapped cheek syndrome usually affects children aged between 6 and 10. Most cases develop during the late winter months or early spring.

In children, the most common symptom is the appearance of a distinctive bright red rash on the cheeks. This is how the condition got its name.

Most cases of slapped cheek syndrome can be diagnosed by examining the rash. Usually, no further testing is necessary in children.

 

What treatment will my child need?

Most children will not need treatment as slapped cheek syndrome is usually a very mild condition that passes in a few days. Occasionally it can last up to four or five weeks.

Symptoms such as headaches, high temperature or itchy skin can usually be treated with over-the-counter medications such as paracetamol and antihistamines.

Adults who develop joint pain can use non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen, as painkillers.

You will probably only need to contact your GP if one or both of the following occurs:

·         your (or your child’s) temperature rises to 39C or above

·         your (or your child’s) symptoms suddenly worsen

What are the causes of slapped cheek syndrome?

Slapped cheek syndrome is caused by a virus called parvovirus B19. Parvovirus B19 is an airborne virus that is spread in much the same way as the cold or flu viruses. It can be spread through coughs and sneezes that release tiny droplets of contaminated saliva which are then breathed in by another person.

It's very difficult to prevent the spread of the virus as people are most contagious before their symptoms begin, so they are unaware that they are infected.

Once you've been infected you should develop a lifelong immunity and not experience any further symptoms.