Covid outbreak at school forces dozens to isolate
MORE THAN 20 PEOPLE TEST POSITIVE FOR THE DISEASE
AN outbreak of Covid at a Derbyshire school has forced dozens of people to self-isolate.
It has been confirmed that 25 cases of the disease have been linked to Belmont Primary School, in Belmont Street, Swadlincote.
Infected pupils and all people who are classed as contacts with them have been sent home. One parent claimed several classes were isolating, with more than 100 people affected by the outbreak.
A spokesperson for Derbyshire County Council said: “We are aware of 25 cases of Covid-19 linked to Belmont School. Our public health and children’s services departments are supporting the school in responding to the situation.
“The director of public health has also written to parents and carers with relevant information and outlining measures to reduce the risk of Covid-19 transmission – including staying apart, washing hands regularly and wearing a face covering when required unless exempt.”
The council has been asked for clarification on how many children had been sent home and when they were expected back, but the council had not provided that information at the time of publication.
All cases and contacts have been asked to self-isolate and follow the required guidance.
The spokesperson continued: “Those school bubbles which are not required to self-isolate are still in school. All public health, environmental health and infection, prevention and control actions have been implemented and we are monitoring the situation closely.”
Parents say they are now worried the Easter holidays will be ruined for children, families and staff if they are forced to isolate. It comes after they received a letter confirming there had been “a number” of Covid cases.
Written by the council, it says: “As I am sure you are aware there are currently a number of confirmed cases of Covid-19 within your school community.
“Public Health at Derbyshire County Council is working closely with your school to ensure appropriate actions are being taken and preventative measures are in place. Some of these recent cases in school have not initially presented with the three main symptoms of Covid-19 which are a continuous cough, loss or change in taste or smell or high temperature, with some first experiencing either tummy ache, headache, extreme tiredness or muscle aches. Please continue to be vigilant and do not send your child to school if they are unwell.”