Coronavirus in Derbyshire: Everything we know as school and GP close over deadly bug

Here’s what we know so far.

What has happened?

Burbage Primary School in Buxton has closed today (Thursday, February 27) after a parent of a pupil tested positive for coronavirus after returning from a foreign holiday. The school made the announcement on Wednesday evening and said the child of the parent did not travel on holiday, but did attend school on Monday, February 24 and Tuesday, February 25.

Buxton Medical Practice has also closed after one of its patients tested positive for the virus.

It is not yet known if the two closures are linked. The Derbyshire Times has asked public Health England for comment.

The Buxton case is one of two new confirmed cases of the virus in this country, bringing the total number of UK cases to 15, the Department of Health said.

What have the school and the medical practice said?

The school has said the closure is a 'precautionary measure' to allow for a 'deep clean'. It has confirmed it will be closed for a second day to allow for cleaning, and should reopen on Monday.

Meanwhile, a recorded message at the medical centre says: “We have a confirmed case of coronavirus. We are liaising with Public Health England and the CCG (clinical commissioning group) to ensure all appropriate actions are taken.

“Please do not come to the practice. If you need essential care, please continue to hold and you will be diverted to NHS 111.”

On Thursday afternoon the practice announced it hopes to reopen on Friday following a deep clean.

What's the reaction from the public been like?

There's been a mixed reaction from members of the public across Derbyshire. One person said it was only ‘a matter of time’ before an outbreak in the county, while another said the case should be put into perspective.

You can read some more reaction from Derbyshire residents here.

This is an ongoing news story. Check back regularly for updates. You can also keep up-to-date on developments on our live blog.