kmilanian@thekmgroup.co.uk

A child at a Gillingham primary school has become the second school pupil to be diagnosed with swine flu in Medway.

The unnamed child was confirmed as a case late last night (Thursday, July 2) following a confirmed case at St Andrew's School, in Rochester, earlier this week.

Parents at St Mary's Catholic Primary School, in Greenfield Road, can expect to receive letters regarding the pupil this afternoon.

Head teacher Bernadette Long said she had already been in touch with the Health Protection Authroity.

She declined to reveal the age of the pupil but said they were one of the older children at the school.

Mrs Long said: "I want to reassure parents we are following all the correct procedures and the HPA are being very helpful and supportive."

About 400 pupils, aged between four and 11, attend the voluntary-aided mixed primary school.

The number of confirmed cases in Medway has now risen to nine with about 79 cases across Kent.

If you develop flu-like symptoms, phone your family doctor or NHS Direct on 0845 4647.