Wigan school closed for deep clean amid coronavirus fears

Tyldesley Primary School has made the decision after it said a small number of people had symptoms at home "that are linked to the coronavirus."

The school said it will be shut for two days and is hoping to re-open on Wednesday (March 18).

Headteacher Michelle Ridsdale said: "Today, Sunday, March 15, we have made the difficult decision to close the school for two days for a full deep clean of the school. This follows news that we have a small number of people who are displaying symptoms, at home, that are linked to the coronavirus.

"It is important to stress that, given we are at a time of the year when there are lots of colds and bugs going about, displaying these symptoms does not mean that these individuals have Covid-19. It is, however, right everyone appropriately manages the potential of them having the virus to help protect every member of our community, particularly the most vulnerable.

"Given the Government has moved into the “Delay” phase, where testing will not be carried out on people who self-isolates, we are taking this opportunity to do the deep clean – and then ensuring that additional cleaning is done every day."

And Mrs Ridsdale advised staff, children and their families to stay away from the school for seven days if they had the most common symptoms of coronavirus. These are a recent onset of a new continuous cough and/or a high temperature.

She added: "Our hope is that by taking this action now, and with your support if following the advice above, we are protecting both the health of our children and ensuring that learning is not further disrupted over the coming days and weeks.

"We will, however, be adhering to all Public Health England guidance as it is given, so please do keep an eye on our Facebook page, Class DOJO communication etc.

"We look forward to seeing you all again on Wednesday, March 18."

Three people in the borough have tested positive for the COVID-19 strain of coronavirus.

The number of confirmed infections has reached 1,372 in the UK with 35 deaths.

Anyone who has recently returned from abroad or has a close family member who has done so should visit www.gov.uk/guidance/travel-advice-novel-coronavirus.

Anyone in any doubt about symptoms can look on the NHS 111 website for guidance at https://111.nhs.uk/covid-19