Coronavirus has broken out at a Three Towns secondary school again, with staff and pupils told not to come in if they have any symptoms of a chest cold.

Numerous cases of COVID-19 have been confirmed at St Matthew's Academy in Saltcoats, which has suffered from several outbreaks since August.

This is at least the fourth outbreak at the school which has pupils from across North Ayrshire including Irvine, Largs, Dalry and the Three Towns.

READ MORE: St Matthew's Academy in Saltcoats hit with coronavirus for third time

Several parents have contacted the Herald concerned by the large numbers of pupils believed to be self-isolating.

One parent told the Herald: "It’s very concerning. It’s not the school's fault but I think it should be shut for a clean as it’s getting out of hand now.

"Also we just get track and trace letters telling us that someone has it but there is nothing from the school to say so many pupils have it and so many are off. Probably because it would frighten parents too much.

"But at this time of year everyone needs to be very careful."

READ MORE: In pictures: Coronavirus vaccine given to Ayrshire NHS staff and who will be offered it first

Following the most recent outbreak, NHS Ayrshire and Arran have told any pupils or staff developing other symptoms of respiratory infection such as a 'head cold' or a sore throat between now and the end term should 'stay away from school' and arrange for a COVID-19 test.

Lynne McNiven, Joint Director of Public Health, said it was an 'enhanced precaution' on the lead up to the end of term on December 23.

Anyone being asked to self-isolate after Thursday, December 10, would have to be in isolation over Christmas and be unable to make use of the relaxed restrictions over the festive period without breaking the rules.

READ MORE: North Ayrshire coronavirus lockdown remains in Level 3

From now until the school closes parents, carers and staff can arrange for a test by calling the health boards Health Protection Team on 01292 885858.

Ms McNiven said: “NHS Ayrshire & Arran’s Health Protection Team, along with North Ayrshire Council, can confirm that a contact tracing exercise is being carried out within St Matthew’s Academy.

"We have immediately undertaken a careful risk assessment to identify any children and staff who may have had contact with the confirmed cases.

"These individuals are being contacted by the Test and Protect Team and told to self-isolate at home for 14 days. The risk to the wider school community is currently low and the school will remain open as normal.

"We appreciate this is a very worrying time. However, we would like to assure people that every measure is being taken to protect children and staff.

"To respect and maintain patient confidentiality it is not possible to release any further information at this time.

"We would like to remind people of the symptoms of Coronavirus (COVID-19): new persistent cough; high temperature; and / or loss of taste and smell. Anyone who develops any of these symptoms should book a test and self-isolate immediately.

"Further to this, in response to the recent cases in St Matthew’s Academy, we would advise that, as an enhanced precaution, any pupils or staff developing other symptoms of respiratory infection (such as a “head cold” or a sore throat) between now and the end of the school term (23rd December 2020), should stay away from school and arrange for a COVID-19 test.

"From now until the end of term, this could be facilitated through a call to 01292 885858."