A Jewish school has closed temporarily because of a suspected outbreak of the norovirus.

Hertsmere Jewish Primary, in Borehamwood, was shut on Friday on advice from health authorities.

In a statement, Steven Isaacs, the headteacher, said the "difficult" decision had been taken after consulting the local council and Public Health England (PHE).

The school was advised to close "as a matter of caution", and carry out additional deep cleaning.

Mr Issacs said: “Although we do not believe that any environmental elements are contributory factors to this sickness outbreak, the welfare of both staff and pupils is our prime concern and we want to do our best to limit the spread of the bug.

“We have communicated fully with parents and we appreciate their support and understanding.”

PHE said it had been made aware that a number of staff and pupils at the school have been suffering with symptoms in common with the norovirus. The nature of the infection had yet to be confirmed.

The organisation was working with the school to provide hygiene and infection control advice to stop the illness spreading.

Lucianne Lambourne, senior health protection practitioner at Public Health England East, said: “Norovirus affects people of all ages. It is highly contagious and although unpleasant, people usually recover within two to three days. Good hygiene such as hand-washing and disinfecting contaminated surfaces is the key to preventing this infection spreading.”

Norovirus is one of the most frequent cause of infectious gastroenteritis in England and Wales. It is also known as the “winter vomiting disease” due to its seasonality and typical symptoms of vomiting and diarrhoea. The symptoms usually last from 12 to 60 hours and will start with the sudden onset of nausea.