Ski trip student tested for coronavirus

Tuesday 25 February 2020

Grammar students who recently returned from a school ski trip to Italy have been sent home to self-isolate, with at least one pupil showing symptoms of coronavirus.

Around 80 children visited Piedmont in northern Italy last week, which is close to an area where cases of the virus have now been confirmed.

Public Health England issued guidance today, urging anyone who has recently visited the region and has symptoms to isolate themselves at home and to avoid contact with other people.

The Grammar School student showing symptoms will be tested for the coronavirus, while all other children on the trip have been asked to stay at home until those results come back, along with ten members of staff. 

"The relevant symptoms for a coronavirus (cough, fever, shortness of breath) are common to many winter illnesses which are frequently seen at this time of year," said Director of Public Health, Dr Nicola Brink. "The risk to the children and staff attending this ski trip is currently considered to be low and our actions at this stage are precautionary."

All the students who have been sent home will be contacted by Public Health Services with further advice.

"We have been working closely with colleagues from Public Health, who in turn have been in regular contact with the Grammar School and Sixth Form Centre Headteacher," added Director of Operations for Education, Ed Ashton. "Public Health are the experts and lead agency and therefore it is essential to follow the advice they have provided. We fully support the precautionary action they have asked the school to take."

Further advice and information can be found on the States of Guernsey website.