Coronavirus: Gosport schoolchildren could start studying at home amid virus outbreak

Brune Park and Bay House Schools finished early today – with the afternoon being spent training staff to teach remotely.

The training has taken place in case the school is asked to close, following the government’s move to the ‘delay’ phase of the Covid-19 response plan.

In a joint statement, headteachers Kirstie Andrew-Power and Dr Nigel Matthias said: ‘Whilst school closures remain unlikely at this stage, our staff will be trained to deliver lessons via online revision platforms and home study materials to ensure minimal disruption to student learning, particularly those sitting GCSE or A-level examinations this summer.

‘We remain committed to a sensible and proportionate response and wish to reiterate that there is no reason for alarm – we have made provision to ensure minimise disruption to lessons.

‘Families were informed of the training sessions earlier this week to ensure they were able to make suitable childcare arrangements. We thank them for their continued support.’

Today, the total number of cases in the UK has risen to 590.

Two more patients have also died, taking the country’s death toll to 10.

Across the country, 29,764 people have been tested across the country and 29,174 have come back negative.

People returning from Northern Italy or parts of South Korea are urged to self-isolate even if they don’t have any symptoms.

Anyone returning from other parts of these countries are advised to self-isolate if they show respiratory problems.

Coronavirus: the facts

What is coronavirus?

COVID-19 is a respiratory illness that can affect lungs and airways. It is caused by a virus called coronavirus.

What caused coronavirus?

The outbreak started in Wuhan in China in December 2019 and it is thought that the virus, like others of its kind, has come from animals.

How is it spread?

As this is such a new illness, experts still aren’t sure how it is spread. But.similar viruses are spread in cough droplets. Therefore covering your nose and mouth when sneezing and coughing, and disposing of used tissues straight away is advised. Viruses like coronavirus cannot live outside the body for very long.

What are the symptoms?

The NHS states that the symptoms are: a dry cough, high temperature and shortness of breath - but these symptoms do not necessarily mean you have the illness. Look out for flu-like symptoms, such as aches and pains, nasal congestion, runny nose and a sore throat. It’s important to remember that some people may become infected but won’t develop any symptoms or feel unwell.

What precautions can be taken?

Washing your hands with soap and water thoroughly. The NHS also advises to cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve (not your hands) when you cough or sneeze; put used tissues in the bin immediately and try to avoid close contact with people who are unwell. Also avoiding touching eyes, nose and mouth unless your hands are clean.

Should I avoid public places?

Most people who feel well can continue to go to work, school and public places and should only stay at home and self isolate if advised by a medical professional or the coronavirus service.

What should I do if I feel unwell?

Don’t go to your GP but instead call NHS 111 or look online at the coronavirus service that can tell you if you need medical help and what to do next.

When to call NHS 111

NHS 111 should be used if you feel unwell with coronavirus symptoms, have been in a country with a high risk of coronavirus in the last 14 days or if you have been in close contact with someone with the virus.

Sources: World Health Organisation and NHS