Coronavirus: Henry Beaufort School in Winchester closes after student tests positive for virus

A school in Winchester has closed after a pupil was diagnosed with coronavirus.
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Students at the Henry Beaufort School were sent home at 1pm today and the plan is to reopen on Monday after a deep clean has taken place.

In a letter to parents headteacher Sue Hearle said the student was isolating at home and insisted there was no need for other students to self-isolate at this time.

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The letter said: ‘We have been made aware that one of our students has been diagnosed with Coronavirus (COVID-19). This student is isolating at home. We have contacted Public Health England [PHE] and they have stated that there is no reason for self- isolation of any other students in school, only the child involved.

Henry Beaufort School. Picture: Google MapsHenry Beaufort School. Picture: Google Maps
Henry Beaufort School. Picture: Google Maps
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‘If any student develops the symptoms of the coronavirus then they must follow the advice and self-isolate.

‘As a result of this we have made the decision to close the school early today.

‘This is so we can perform a full deep clean as soon as possible after being informed of the confirmed case in order to minimise the risk of the virus spreading.‘

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The number of UK cases of coronavirus has increased to 798 as of Friday morning – a rise of more than 200 in the last 24 hours.

Miss Hearle added: ‘I understand that parents may be worried, but following advice from the specialists at PHE, I am assured that there is no need for the school to close for a longer period of time.’

Yesterday Fareham College announced one of its staff members was being treated for coronavirus.

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There are no confirmed cases of the virus in Portsmouth at this time.

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

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