A school in Sidcup has been hit with an outbreak of scarlet fever, according to parents.

Scarlet fever is highly contagious and most common in children under 10 years old.

Some pupils of St Peter Chanel Catholic School in Baugh Road, Sidcup, have reportedly been off school since last week.

One parent, whose son has been absent since Thursday, told News Shopper: “My son has been extremely ill and has had a raging temperature and rash all over his body, swollen strawberry tongue and a very bad sore throat.

“I feel other parents should be made aware and ready to look out for symptoms so they can catch it early.”

She added the school told her today it was sending a leaflet to all parents, warning them about the symptoms of scarlet fever.

What are the symptoms?

Early signs also include a pinkish/red sandpapery rash appearing within a day or two.

The rash usually first appears on the chest and stomach before spreading to other parts of the body. Scarlet fever is highly contagious and children aged two to eight are most at risk.

How is it treated?

The infection needs prompt treatment with antibiotics owing to the potential for complications and more severe illness caused by its group A strep bacteria.

Here are the number of cases reported across south-east London during the week ending June 17.

Bromley – 9

Bexley – 4

Greenwich – 3

Lewisham 8

A spokeswoman for St Peter Chanel Catholic Primary School said they were aware of two cases of scarlet fever. 

They added that they would be informing parents.