Chris Whitty issues three-word warning over schools being open as Sheffield cases rise

There have been a number of confirmed cases at schools in Sheffield and elsewhere in the country since pupils returned last week.

Responding to a question from a member of the public about infections in schools, the chief medical officer, Professor Chris Whitty: “Well the only thing I’d add Prime Minister is if, at the moment rates are still very low, if there were to be a change in that, there were to be a much broader increase in rates including of school age children, I think the current policies would have to be looked at again as in the other areas.

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“But at this point, the rates in schools are very low. There will be some school outbreaks, but that is the current situation.”

At least 13 schools across South Yorkshire have been affected by confirmed cases of Covid-19 since the autumn term began.

Prime Minister Boris Johnson said the Department for Education will issue guidance on how universities can remain open to students in a Covid-secure way, as they are told not to send students home in the event of an outbreak.

Speaking at the Downing Street press conference, he said: “Opening universities is critical, again, for students’ life chances and, again, the health risks to individuals are low.

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“Of course, many university students are in the age bracket where we have seen the infection rates rise recently as Chris (Whitty) was just explaining.

“My message to students is simple – please, for the sake of your education and your parents’ and your grandparents’ health: wash your hands, cover your face, make space, and don’t socially gather in groups of more than six, now and when term starts.

“Today the Department for Education is publishing updated guidance for universities on how they can operate in a Covid-secure way, including a clear request not to send students home in the event of an outbreak, so as to avoid spreading the virus across the country.

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“I am very grateful to universities for their continued cooperation and planning for the return of students.”