You may be aware that Hilbre High School took the decision to close this week following a positive coronavirus case in Wirral.

Public Health England (PHE) have spoken to the school, assessed the risk and confirmed that there is currently no information to suggest that there is any increased health risk to any pupils, staff and families at this time, and therefore no public health reason to be closed at the current time.

The Director of Public Health for Wirral is working with Public Health England (PHE) and local health colleagues to do everything they can to stop the virus spreading and ensure the people of Wirral are protected.

The latest national advice is that no schools should close in response to a suspected (or confirmed) COVID-19 case unless directed to do so by Public Health England (PHE).

When a person tests positive for coronavirus, PHE speaks to them to identify anyone who has had close contact with them during the time they are considered to be infectious and contact them as soon as possible to give them the advice they need.

If you haven’t been contacted by PHE you don’t need to do anything, other than follow the existing advice for the general public.

Hygiene and prevention:

According to PHE, good hygiene is the best prevention.

There are some simple steps you can take to protect you and your family by washing your hands regularly and thoroughly and if you cough, cover your mouth and nose with a tissue.

If you have recently been to one of the affected countries and are feeling unwell, you should phone the NHS’s 111 helpline for further advice straight away – please don’t go to your doctor. There is lots of advice on how people can protect themselves online at www.nhs.uk/coronavirus.