A decision has been taken to temporarily close Lanark Grammar School today (Friday, March 13) as a precautionary measure following the emergence of a coronavirus case at the school.
As the news broke on Thursday evening, the school was working closely with NHS Lanarkshire’s public health team to contact staff and parents to inform them of the decision and of their intention to reopen the school on Monday, March 16, 2020.
The individual with coronavirus is self-isolating at home and is giving no cause for concern.
Dr John Logan, NHS Lanarkshire consultant in public health medicine, said: “We would like to reassure all staff and parents that the risk of contracting coronavirus from this individual is very low.
“Our public health team is in the process of identifying and contacting the limited number of people who were in very close contact with the confirmed case and issuing public health advice.
“We want to reassure these teachers and parents – and indeed everyone at this time – that they should follow the most up-to-date healthcare advice, which can be found on the NHS Inform website.
“We would like to thank everyone at the school for their cooperation and support. We are working towards re-opening the school on Monday.”
Tony McDaid, Executive Director for Education at South Lanarkshire Council, said: “The health and safety of our staff and young people are of paramount importance to us.
“As soon as we were notified of this matter we immediately met with NHS Lanarkshire’s public health officials and agreed that to close temporarily as a precaution would be the most appropriate step to take.
“We of course regret the inconvenience this will cause but hope parents, carers and others will understand our reasons for this course of action and fully support our decision.
“We will keep all parents, staff and teachers updated during this period.”
The best way for people to protect yourself and others against coronavirus (COVID 19) is to wash your hands with soap and water, or use a sanitiser gel, regularly throughout the day.
You should also attempt to catch any cough or sneeze in a tissue, bin it, and wash your hands.
People should also avoid touching surfaces and then their mouth or eyes.
Anyone who has visited one of the affected areas overseas (see www.nhsinform.scot/coronavirus for an up-to-date list) and has a fever, cough or shortness of breath within 14 days of returning is advised to phone their GP or NHS 24 on 111 immediately.
People should not go to their GP practice or other healthcare setting in person.
There is information on the NHS Lanarkshire website, with links to lots of official information and advice.
For further information, visit www.nhsinform.scot/coronavirus or www.nhslanarkshire.scot.nhs.uk/coronavirus .
