Ardrossan Academy pupils sent home after potentially deadly bacteria found in school water supply

A school sent pupils home after potentially deadly bacteria was found in its water supply in North Ayrshire.

Ardrossan Academy closed as a “precautionary measure” after the council’s water-quality monitoring team detected traces of legionella bacteria in the system.

A full clean, flush and disinfect of the entire water supply within the building was undertaken and follow-up testing is planned.

The school was reopened for classes and exams on Wednesday, however, the council confirmed the area where legionella was found will remain closed until test results confirm the bacteria is no longer present.

Legionella bacteria can cause Legionnaires’ disease, a potentially fatal form of pneumonia, if inhaled with symptoms including coughs, fevers and breathing problems.

However, it is usually treatable with antibiotics.

The bacteria is usually spread via tiny droplets of water in the air, typically through sources such as air conditioner units, humidifiers as well as taps and showers that have not been used often.

Ardrossan Academy headteacher Anne Anderson said: “As parents and carers would expect, the wellbeing of our young people and staff must come first.

“While the temporary closure is disappointing, we are aiming to ensure the closure doesn’t impact on the pupils, particularly during this important exam period.”

Councillor Shaun Macaulay, cabinet member for education and young people, said: “This is unfortunate but shows the importance of having a rigorous testing regime in place for our water supplies.

“The issue was flagged up quickly and action is already being taken to disinfect and clean the system.

“The safety of our pupils and staff is our priority, and while the chances of contracting legionella are incredibly small, it isn’t a risk we are prepared to take.”

Parents will be kept fully informed with updates issued directly from the school, the council said.