Dear Parents and Carers,
Confirmed case of COVID-19 at St Matthew’s Primary School
We have been advised that there has been a confirmed case of COVID-19 within your child’s class.
We know that you may find this concerning; however, we are continuing to monitor the situation and are following the correct procedures to keep our children, school and community safe. Please be reassured that for most people, coronavirus (COVID-19) will be a mild illness.
Self-isolation for close contacts and household members
Close contacts or household members of a positive case do not need to self-isolate if any of the following applies:
• They are fully vaccinated
• They are below the age of 18 years and 6 months
• They have taken part in or are currently part of an approved COVID-19 vaccine trial
• They are not able to get vaccinated for medical reasons
So your child does not need to self-isolate and must continue to attend school as normal if they are well and are not showing any symptoms of COVID-19.
What to do if your child or a member of your household develops symptoms of COVID-19
If your child or a member of your household does develop symptoms of COVID-19, they must not come to school and should self-isolate immediately.
Remaining household members do not need to self-isolate unless they are displaying symptoms.
We advise you to take a PCR test as soon as possible if you have any of these symptoms, even if mild:
- A high temperature
- A new, continuous cough
- A loss or change to your sense of smell or taste
Anyone with COVID-19 symptoms will be eligible for free testing and this can be arranged via Get tested for coronavirus (COVID-19) – NHS (www.nhs.uk) or by calling 119.
For most people, coronavirus (COVID-19) will be a mild illness. If your child develops symptom’s symptoms, or they are worsening, you can seek advice from NHS 111 at https://111.nhs.uk/ or by phoning 111.
How to stop COVID-19 spreading
There are things you can do to help protect yourself and others.
- Meet outside, or open windows and doors for indoor visitors
- If you think you have symptoms stay at home and take a PCR test
- Self-isolate (for at least 10 days) if you receive a positive PCR test result
- Wear face coverings in crowded places and on public transport
- Check in to venues when you go out
- Wash your hands with soap regularly, and for at least 20 seconds
- Get vaccinated (if applicable)
Further Information
Further information is available at https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/coronavirus-covid-19/
If you have any further questions, please do not hesitate to contact us by telephone, or email.
Thank you for your continued support – working together, as a community, will help to keep us all safe.
Yours sincerely,
Ms J Thomas and Ms D Thompson
Co-Headteachers