Halstead has had its first confirmed case of swine flu.

An adult from St Andrew’s Primary School in Mathews Close was diagnosed with having swine flu on Tuesday night.

Parents of the 238 pupils have all been contacted and some have decided to take their children out of school.

Damon Howlett, headteacher, said: “It’s just one case at the moment.

“It’s not a shock - it was inevitable.

“We were ready and we’re happy with how we have dealt with it so far.

“We have communicated with parents as much as we can.

“We did all we could.

“There have been a few parents who have kept their children out of school because there might be someone at home with underlying health problems.

“That’s their decision and I’m not going to argue with it.”

Parents of pupils have praised the way in which the school has dealt with its first case.

Alison Cracknell, who has an eight-year-old daughter, said: “I think they’re dealing with it really well.

“I have no concerns there. My daughter will be going to school until the end of term.”

Sudbury Road resident Emma Swainsbury, who is mum to Elle, 11, and Lucy, eight, said: “You could get it anywhere. It’s inevitable.

“I will be keeping a close eye on my children.”