A PUPIL at a Hereford school has tested positive for coronavirus, Herefordshire Council has said.

The close contacts to the pupil who tested positive, who's in year 7, have been traced.

As a result, some 24 pupils at Whitecross High School, in Three Elms Road, have been told to self-isolate for two weeks.

Karen Wright, director of public health for Herefordshire, said: “I can confirm that a Year 7 pupil at Whitecross High School, Hereford has tested positive for Covid-19.

"We would like to reassure parents and carers that we are working closely with the school and swift action has been taken to identify close contacts.

“There are 24 pupils identified as close contacts and they have been sent home to self-isolate for 14 days.

"All other pupils should continue to attend school as planned.

“We have worked with all our schools who have put robust measures in place to minimise the risk of coronavirus spreading.

"We understand parents will be concerned but we can expect to see more cases in schools and the process of testing and contact tracing is part of the ‘new normal’."

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She added: "Parents are reminded not to send your child to school if they are unwell and have any of the identified Covid-19 symptoms or they live in a household with someone who has symptoms or has tested positive in the past 14 days.

“To protect yourself and others, please continue to wash your hands regularly, keep your distance and use face coverings in public spaces, shops and on public transport.

"Anyone who has a fever, persistent dry cough, or loss or change in their sense of taste or smell should call 119 or go online to arrange a test.”