Health chiefs seek to offer reassurance over confirmed case of coronavirus in Buxton

Dr Fu-Meng Khaw, Centre Director of Public Health England East Midlands, spoke out after a parent of a child at Burbage Primary School was diagnosed with the virus – leading to the closure of the school for a deep clean.

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School bosses closed the school yesterday and today for cleaning to be carried out as a ‘precautionary’ measure.

It is due to re-open on Monday.

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The parent concerned contracted the virus while on holiday in Tenerife last week.

Dr Khaw said: “Public Health England is contacting people who had close contact with one of the latest confirmed cases of COVID-19.

“Close contacts will be given health advice about symptoms and emergency contact details to use if they become unwell in the 14 days after contact with the confirmed cases. This tried and tested method will ensure we are able to minimise any risk to them and the wider public.

“We are aware that Burbage Primary School in Buxton has taken the decision to close. My team have spoken to the school, assessed the risk and confirmed that there is currently no information to suggest that there is any increased health risk to any pupils or staff at the school and no public health reason to remain closed.”

Director of Public Health for Derbyshire County Council, Dean Wallace, said: “I’d like to reassure people that the risk to the general public remains low and Derbyshire County Council is working with health colleagues to do everything we can to stop the virus spreading and ensure the people of Derbyshire are protected.

“Good hygiene is the best prevention and there are some simple steps you can take to protect you and your family by washing your hands regularly and thoroughly and if you cough, cover your mouth and nose with a tissue.

“If you have recently been to one of the affected countries and are feeling unwell, you should phone the NHS’s 111 helpline – please don’t go to your doctor.”