Health bosses from Ashton, Leigh and Wigan Primary Care Trust have confirmed that a number of schools are affected – although none has been closed.

It is believed that one of the schools affected is Westleigh Methodist Primary School, in Westleigh Lane, Leigh.

Although the cases, thought to be two sisters and a boy, haven’t been confirmed, a pregnant teacher has been told not to go to school.

As a precaution, some parents are keeping their children off school.
There are also two cases of swine flu at Golborne High School, Lowton Road, in Golborne.

A concerned parent, who did not wish to be named, said: “Certain schools in the area haven’t let parents know and people in Golborne are hearing all these stories.

“There doesn’t seem to be information getting round other schools.
“I’m aware of two cases – that’s what the children are saying.”

A spokesman for the NHS Trust confirmed there are children from a number of schools across the borough being treated for swine flu.

A spokesman said: “As we are now in the treatment phase of dealing with this pandemic, we are now diagnosing and prescribing antiviral medication on the basis of symptoms and no longer swabbing and testing individual cases. Schools are not being closed as a matter of routine.”

NHS Ashton Leigh and Wigan has now escalated its pandemic flu plans and has already set up a local antiviral collection point where people can collect medication for individuals following a GP diagnosis.

A further collection point is to be brought into use in the next few days.

However, the advice from health experts is that all well pupils and members of staff should continue to attend school as normal.

Dr Kate Ardern, Executive Director of Public Health for Wigan Borough, advises anyone who has a fever and flu-like symptoms not to go to school or work.

They should stay at home, call NHS Direct on 0845 4647 or telephone their GP.

She added: “You should only attend healthcare settings such as GP surgeries or A&E departments if advised to do so by a health professional.

“We have plenty of supplies of antiviral medication and good arrangements in place to ensure all who need it receive prompt treatment.”