Youths linked to new cluster of eight coronavirus cases

A number of secondary school pupils have been linked to a new outbreak of coronavirus cases in Glasgow.

NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde (NHSGGC) confirmed on Wednesday the Test and Protect service had identified a cluster of eight cases of Covid-19, several of whom are pupils at Bannerman High School in Baillieston.

The school reopened on Wednesday, but none of the students attended as they are self-isolating at home.

The health board said none of the cases are experiencing anything but mild symptoms and there is “no added risk” to the wider community or those returning to school.

Close contacts have been advised to self-isolate. Meanwhile, Test and Protect staff are contacting anyone who may be affected.

All places the cases visited during their infectious period are being identified, assessed and are being supported with control measures.

Dr Linda de Caestecker, director of public health at NHSGGC, said: “We want to reassure local people and businesses that this cluster of cases of Covid-19 is being thoroughly investigated and managed by the NHSGGC public health protection team.

“An NHSGGC-led assessment group working with Glasgow City Council met today to undertake a risk assessment and provide advice to the school and other settings the cases visited.

“None of the cases are experiencing anything but mild symptoms and to maintain patient confidentiality we are unable to give any further information on the cases.

“Each of these cases is being managed and followed up in detail, and all of them are isolating at home.”

This new cluster follows on from an outbreak last month in the health board’s Inverclyde area.

An Amazon warehouse worker in Gourock and staff at M&D Green pharmacy in Port Glasgow were amongst those to test positive.

Dr de Caestecker added: “We want to reassure the wider community and especially pupils and teachers returning to school that there is no added risk due to this cluster.

“We also want to remind people to stay off school or work and get tested if they experience any symptoms.”