The city of Liverpool is reeling with sorrow after the tragic deaths of two young children from Millstead Primary School in Everton. T
he children, aged 5 and 6, attended a school known for catering to children with special educational needs.
The school community is deeply affected, with both pupils remembered fondly for bringing joy to their classrooms.
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Today, expressions of grief and condolences poured in from across Liverpool. Belinda Sullivan voiced the collective heartbreak, stating, “Thinking of the family and friends of the two children. Awful, just awful.” Nichola Smith, a fellow Millstead parent, shared her sentiments, “All us Millstead parents are sending our love and thoughts to the families, heartbreaking.”
Stacey Gillespie added, “So sad, thinking of all the staff and the little girls’ families.” Stacey Bridge-Tucker echoed the sorrow, “The whole school community is heartbroken. RIP girls.” Jessie Carey also expressed her grief, “RIP to the 2 young girls that have sadly passed away. Thinking of friends, family, and the whole of Millstead teachers and pupils at this sad time.”
Millstead Primary School is currently managing an outbreak of giardiasis, an infection caused by the parasite Giardia lamblia. The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) is involved, though they have indicated that the deaths are unlikely linked to giardiasis. The infection, typically not severe and treatable with antibiotics, causes gastrointestinal symptoms such as diarrhea, stomach cramps, and bloating.
A UKHSA spokesperson conveyed their condolences: “Our thoughts are with the family, friends, and school community. The deaths are unlikely due to Giardia. Giardia usually causes a self-limiting gastrointestinal illness which can spread easily in households and school settings.”
The Giardia outbreak occurred at Millstead last month, noting public health measures were in place to control the spread. The school closed for a week to curb the infections.
Emma Savage, a consultant in health protection for the UKHSA Cheshire and Merseyside Health Protection Team, stated, “Investigations are ongoing, and we have provided information and advice to the school and parents. Public health measures have been put in place to help prevent further cases.”
Preventive measures for giardiasis include regular hand washing with soap and water, especially after using the toilet and before handling food. The NHS provides further information on giardiasis and its prevention here.
Millstead headteacher Michelle Beard expressed profound sorrow over the loss: “The entire Millstead School community is devastated to have learned of the sad recent passing of two of our younger children. We have sent our sincerest condolences to both of their families.
Both children filled their classes with joy during their time with us, and they will forever be in our hearts. We are working closely with our families, staff, and pupils to support them as we come to terms with this terribly sad news.”
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