Coronavirus: Trinity School closes after two confirmed cases

A secondary school in Carlisle is to close after a second person tested positive for coronavirus.

Trinity School announced on Wednesday evening that a pupil had contracted the virus. It follows the diagnosis of a teacher earlier this week .

The school will remain closed until 23 March and a deep clean will be carried out.

Cumbria’s Director of Public Health, Colin Cox, said: “This is a fast evolving situation and the school has been following all the official guidance it has received. The reality is that it was always uncertain that the virus could be fully contained, and in practice we are now at the stage of trying to delay and slow its spread. This is a disease we will have to live with, so it’s now about managing that reality.

“It is likely there will be more cases confirmed within the school community and locally over the coming days and people should continue to follow the core advice around hygiene good practice, but self-isolation is only recommended if people develop symptoms.

“I understand this is a worrying situation, particularly for those who are more vulnerable, that it is why it is so important to take the sensible steps to avoid spreading infection.”

Investigations began on Thursday to find possible sources of the disease and to trace anyone who may've been in contact with the infected staff member and student.

Pupils at Trinity were told the news at 12:30pm. Parents will be able to collect their children from the school from any point today.

It's been advised that anyone with symptoms when the school reopens should not return until they are well.

The advice is that self-isolating is not required unless you are a contact of a known case and have been advised to do so by Public Health England.

Those who develop symptoms are asked to self-isolate and get in touch with NHS 111.