Sheffield primary school closes classroom over fears child has ‘mild case of coronavirus'

Totley All Saints C of E Primary School said it has been informed that a Year 1 pupil has an ‘mild case’ of coronavirus, although it has not been confirmed by Public Health England.

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In a letter to parents, head teacher Karole Sargent said the Y1 classroom will be closed today for a precautionary deep clean.

She said: “I have just been informed that there is what is termed a ‘mild case' of coronavirus of a child in Y1, but have not yet had this confirmed by Public Health England, which is the government’s preferred means of taking further action.

“Having taken advice, we know that the virus lives on surfaces for 72 hours and as the child did not attend school on Friday, this gives three clear days in which direct contact would not have been made within the Y1 classroom.

“The advice is that a deep clean of the classroom should take place in order to disinfect the whole area.

“As a result I have taken the decision to close the Y1 classroom and for those parents who can keep their children off school from Y1 to do so.”

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She added: “For those Y1 parents who do send their children to school due to child care issues, we will of course endeavor to teach them in other areas of the school.

“For all other children, school is open as usual.

“I will of course let everyone know if there is a change if situation, but at the moment government advice is for all schools to stay open with a ‘business as usual’ approach.

“In the meantime, please continue to monitor your child/ren's health for symptoms including a high temperature and new cough.

“I know that this information is extremely upsetting in what is already a climate of great fear and anxiety. I know that you will join with me in sending your love and prayers to the child and family affected.”

The latest figures show 12 confirmed cases in Sheffield.