A SCHOOLGIRL at a Hartlepool comprehensive has been diagnosed with swine flu.

The year eight pupil, who has mild symptoms, has already been offered antiviral drugs and is recovering at home.

The head teacher High Tunstall College of Science, Mirjam Buhler-Willey, said advice had been taken from the Health Protection Agency (HPA) and the school would remain open.

Following a risk assessment, carried out by the HPA, the local NHS primary care trust (PCT) and the education authority, antiviral medication has been offered as a precautionary measure to approximately 100 pupils and staff who may have been in close contact with the affected child.

Ms Buhler-Willey said: "We can confirm that a Year 8 girl has contracted swine flu. The college is following the advice from health agencies and a decision has been taken at this stage for the college to remain open.

"Clearly, we will be monitoring the situation in the days ahead very closely and continue to liaise closely with the health agencies."

Pupils at Teesside High School and Ripon Grammar School have already been diagnosed with swine flu. Teesside High is due to re-open tomorrow, while Ripon Grammar is still closed.