Entire primary school class to self-isolate after Covid case

An entire class of primary school children have been told to self-isolate following a positive case of coronavirus.

Glasgow City Council confirmed health officials have contacted the parents and carers of those affected at St Albert’s Primary School in Pollokshields, with guidance to quarantine for 14 days as a precaution.

The local authority said control measures have been put in place and there is “currently no evidence” of transmission within the school itself.

NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde (NHSGGC) sent a letter to guardians on Wednesday.

The health board said it was carrying out contact tracing.

It said pupils and staff can continue to attend school as normal unless otherwise advised by the Test and Protect team.

Arrangements have been made so that all pupils self-isolating will continue to be taught online.

A Glasgow City Council spokeswoman said: “The school is working closely with our public health colleagues who’ve confirmed that robust control measures are in place at the school, and there is currently no evidence of transmission within the school itself.

“The Test and Protect team has contacted any families whose child needs to self-isolate as a precaution for 14 days and the school has already arranged for these pupils to be taught online during this period.

“A public health letter of reassurance has been sent to all families with information and advice.”

NHSGGC later confirmed it was carrying out contact tracing at seven schools in the region.

Wallace Primary School, Renfrewshire
Todholm Primary School, Renfrewshire
Carntyne Primary School, Glasgow
St Albert’s Primary School, Glasgow
St James’ Primary School, Renfrewshire
Kelvinside Academy, Glasgow
Edinbarnet Primary School, West Dunbartonshire

Dr Linda de Caestecker, director of public health at NHSGGC, said: “To control the spread of the virus it is essential that anyone contacted by Test and Protect follows the directions given including self-isolation.

“Anyone who may have been exposed is being given appropriate advice.

“We would like to take this opportunity to remind everyone of the importance of continuing with the general measures to minimise the risk of Covid-19 to themselves and to others.

“These include social distancing, regular handwashing, and being vigilant for symptoms. Anyone with symptoms should immediately self-isolate and seek a test.”