Millstead: Two children from same Liverpool primary school die

“We have sent our sincerest condolences to both of their families,” she added.

Ms Beard said that both children “filled their classes with joy during their time with us, and they will forever be in our hearts”.

Emma Savage, consultant in health protection for the UKHSA’s Cheshire and Merseyside health protection team, said that their “thoughts are with the family, friends and school community”.

Giardiasis is one of the world’s most common gastric diseases, caused by giardia parasites that mimic human cell functions to break apart cells in the gut and feed inside.

People typically pick up the disease by drinking infected water or contaminated food.

Symptoms include severe diarrhoea, stomach pains, bloating, flatulence and fatigue and can last weeks or months without treatment.

Those suffering from giardiasis are usually able to recover from the illness with or without antibiotics.

Ms Savage added: “The deaths are unlikely to be due to giardia. Giardia usually causes a self-limiting gastrointestinal illness which can spread easily in households and school settings.”

Liverpool City Council has been approached for comment.