Parents of pupils at Penryn Primary Academy have been warned after cases of suspected scarlet fever were reported at the school.

The parents are being asked to read a document on 'Information for Parents' section of the school's website, which answers frequently asked questions about symptoms, prevention, and treatment of the highly contagious disease - a regular killer in Victorian times which is now treated with antibiotics.

Symptoms to look out for include sore throat, headache, fever, nausea and vomiting, followed 12 to 48 hours later by a distinctive fine red rash accompanied by a 'sandpaper' feel, and a white coating on the tongue which later peels to look red and swollen.

These are accompanied by swollen glands, tired feeling, and peeling skin on the fingertips, toes, and groin area as the rash fades.

Parents should visit their GP if they or their children show symptoms, as this will speed their recovery, reduce the risk of complications, and help prevent the infection being passed on.