Dear Parents / Carers,
Since school broke up in July the government has changed its advice and guidance on the actions to take if you receive a positive test result for Covid 19 or if you are confirmed as a close contact of a positive case.
I would like to draw your attention to the information below that outlines these changes:
Symptoms
The most important symptoms of coronavirus (COVID-19) are recent onset of any of the following:
• a new continuous cough
• a high temperature
• a loss of, or change in, your normal sense of taste or smell (anosmia)
Testing
Symptomatic Testing
Anyone with any of the above symptoms should self-isolate at home for at least 10 days from when symptoms started and arrange a PCR test. Tests can be booked online at https://www.gov.uk/get-coronavirus-test
Results
A positive PCR or LF test result will require:
- The confirmed case to self-isolate for 10 days from either the onset of Symptoms (symptomatic) or the test date (asymptomatic) = day 0.
- Unless exempt the close contacts of a positive case to self-isolate for 10 days from the date of last contact with a positive case = day 0. NHS Test and Trace will contact close contacts to let them know if they have been identified as a contact and check whether they are legally required to self-isolate.
Exemptions:
A contact of someone with a positive test does not need to isolate if:
-All close contacts are encouraged to seek a PCR test and to isolate if a positive result is received (Do not arrange a PCR test if you have previously received a positive PCR test result in the last 90 days)
I hope you find this information useful in terms of clarifying the actions required under these circumstances. Further information around this subject can be found on our school website and if you do have any questions, please do not hesitate in contacting the school office.