A case of hepatitis A has been detected at a South Croydon school.

A spokeswoman for Public Health England confirmed it was working with the Whitgift School after a single case of the disease was detected.

Dr Rachel Thorn Heathcock, consultant in PHE’s South London Health Protection Team, said: "We’d like to clarify there is not an outbreak at the school.

"There has been a single case of hepatitis A and there is no evidence that there has been any onward transmission.

“We have contacted the parents of all children attending the school along with staff to inform them of the situation and provide information about hepatitis A and the symptoms."

She confirmed that hepatitis A vaccination will be offered to all children and staff at the school to prevent any spread of the infection.

“It is important to stress that hepatitis A rarely causes long term liver damage, unlike other hepatitis viruses," Dr Heathcock said.

"Most people usually feel better within a few weeks and have no long term problems.

“Often hepatitis A does not cause any symptoms, particularly in children, who may be unaware that they have had the infection. Parents have been advised to seek medical attention if children develop any symptoms.”