SCHOOLS in the Wee County were required to undergo an emergency deep clean because of an outbreak of sickness and diarrhoea.

Pupils at the area’s three academies were advised to stay away from school if they were experiencing any symptoms of the contagious Norovirus as events were cancelled or rescheduled.

NHS Forth Valley were then called in to deal with the outbreak as the schools banned visitors from entering the premises in a bid to contain the infection.

Induction days for P7s were cancelled at Alloa Academy and Lornshill Academy.

Alloa also had to postpone a P7 parent info night, as well as reschedule the S6 graduation day.

Lornshill, meanwhile, was forced to postpone its AGM as a result of the virus, and posted on social media to say that visitors were no longer permitted in the school while the situation was being taken care of.

The high school posted: “In order to minimise the spread of norovirus in our school community, we have had to restrict visitors coming into Lornshill Academy.

“For this week, Monday, June 3, to Friday, June 7, no visitors will be permitted to enter Lornshill Academy. This is to ensure the safety of our pupils and staff, and minimise the further spread of this contagious virus.

“If you are a parent or carer and need to discuss an issue regarding your child this week, we are happy to arrange a telephone conversation with the person you need to speak to.

“We will review them and provide an update for next week.”

NHS Forth Valley this week confirmed that cases of diarrhoea and vomiting were continuing in the community and at a number of schools in Clacks.

A spokesperson said: “Parents and carers are being advised to keep children at home for 48 hours after symptoms have stopped to help prevent the spread.

“Deep and enhanced cleans have been taking place in all affected schools and public health experts at NHS Forth Valley are working closely with colleagues in Clackmannanshire Council to do everything possible to control infection.

“This has included limiting inter school events and other large gatherings and continuing communication with families about what precautions to take including practical advice on topics such as handwashing using soap and water, and how to disinfect any contaminated surfaces.

“Adults who may become infected are also advised to stay away from the workplace for 48 hours after their last symptoms.”