Letter sent to Sheffield schools over opening to staff and students amid coronavirus fears

The first case of Covid-19 in Sheffield was confirmed on Wednesday, with the UK now set to move into the ‘delay’ phase as it steps up precautions.

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Schools, colleges and other public facilities in the Republic of Ireland will close from tomorrow in the wake of the outbreak.

In a letter addressed to school headteachers, Mr Fell said Sheffield is “well prepared” for cases of the virus as the number of people continues to rise on a daily basis.

He wrote: “At the time of writing, there are currently no wider implications for any schools in Sheffield following recent cases here. However, we would like to assure you that if any cases of the virus are confirmed in school children or staff, PHE will be in contact with any affected schools to advise on any actions or precautions that should be taken, based on an assessment of each childcare or education setting.”

READ: Coronavirus in Sheffield: What we know so far

Mr Fell said schools should continue to follow government advice on the virus – and the Council particularly encouraged that they continue to promote washing hands with soap and hot water for 20 seconds or more.

Public Health England will continue to contact people who have had close contact with confirmed cases, Mr Fell said. Close contacts are being given specific health advice about symptoms and emergency contact details to use if they become unwell in the 14 days after contact with the confirmed cases.