Dear parent and Carers,

Coronavirus guidance
As a precautionary measure we would like to share with you the current NHS advice on the Corona Virus or COVID-19 illness. However, this advice is being updated frequently and updates can be found using the following links to ensure you access the most up to date advice and guidance:

https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/coronavirus-covid-19/

https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/guidance-to-educational-settings-about-covid-19

https://www.gov.uk/guidance/coronavirus-covid-19-information-for-the-public

Advice updated as of 1st March 2020

What is the risk of catching Coronavirus in the UK?

The UK Chief Medical Officers have raised the risk to the public from low to moderate. But the risk to individuals remains low.

Symptoms of Coronavirus
The symptoms of Coronavirus are:

• A cough
• A high temperature
• Shortness of breath

But these symptoms do not necessarily mean you have the illness.

The symptoms are similar to other illnesses that are much more common, such as cold and flu and most people can continue to go to work, school and other public places.

NOTE:

You only need to stay away from public places if you have been advised by NHS 111 to do so, or you have developed symptoms and have been:

• to Hubei province in China in the last 14 days
• to Iran, areas of Northern Italy in lockdown or “special care zone” areas in South Korea since 19th February
• to other parts of mainland China or South Korea, Thailand, Hapan, hong Kong, Taiwan, Singapore, Malaysia or Macau in the last 14 days and have a cough, high temperature or shortness of breath
• to other parts of Northern Italy (anywhere north of Psa, Florence and Rimini), Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos or Myanmar since 19th February and have a cough, high temperature or shortness of breath
• in close contact with someone with confirmed Coronavirus

Lockdown areas in North Italy

• in Lombardy, Codogno, Castigluione d’Adda, Casalpusterlengo, Fombio, Maleo, Somaglia, Bertonico, Terranova deo Passerini, Castelgerundo and San Fiorano
• in Veneto: Vo’Euganeo

Special care zones in South Korea

• Daegu
• Cheongdo

If any of the above applies to you, do not go to a GP surgery, pharmacy or hospital. Call 111, stay indoors and avoid close contact with other people.

If you are unwell and are concerned, current advice for anyone who is showing signs of shortness of breath, coughing or fever is to call NHS 111.

The risk is still relatively low for individuals but we wanted to share this information with you so that we can remain vigilant.

Should there be further guidance for schools we will of course communicate these as soon as possible.

Kind Regards

Mr T Sharpe

Headteacher