AT least 30 children at a Burnley primary school have been affected by a rare infectious condition which leaves them with red faces.

Many other youngsters across the town are understood to be suffering from the illness which has been dubbed "slap-face syndrome''

The viral infection gives sufferers a bright red face which leaves them looking as though they have been slapped on the cheeks.

Its proper name is Erythema infectisum and it is also known as the fifth disease of childhood.

The infection has hit the younger children at St Mary Magdalene's Primary School, Burnley, over the last seven weeks during which time about thirty, or one third of the four to seven age group, have had some time off school.

Head teacher Terry Ferguson said: "We have had children with fantastically bright red cheeks looking just like they had been painted.''

He added: "They don't seem to feel particularly poorly but we are not doctors and we had to seek medical advice.

''It can be difficult to distinguish from German measles and we were especially concerned that it could spread to mothers of pupils who might be pregnant.''

The school contacted the consultant community paediatrician who provided information and advice on what action to take.

When the rash appeared parents would be contacted and asked to take their children home. "Some of them looked at their children in horror when they saw just how red their cheeks were,'' said Mr Ferguson.

The red faces began to appear in school about seven weeks ago and usually lasts for only a few days.

A spokesman for the East Lancashire Health Authority said they were aware of the condition but that it was not considered a particular problem in this area.

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