Bedford school hit by coronavirus after two siblings tests positive

Students are self isolating
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A school in Bedford has confirmed its first cases of Covid-19 after two siblings tested positive.

Bedford Academy, in Mile Road, has written to all parents after learning about the siblings in Years 11 and 13.

In a statement, the school said: "We advised that should their son/daughter develop any symptoms, they are to follow government advice, self-isolate and arrange for their child to be tested. Parents were also encouraged to contact the headteacher should they have any questions or specific concerns."

Two siblings have tested positive at Bedford AcademyTwo siblings have tested positive at Bedford Academy
Two siblings have tested positive at Bedford Academy

The school also clarified what constitied close contact:

*Face-to-face contact with the positive case for any length of time, within 1 metre, including being coughed on.

*A face-to-face conversation with the positive case, unprotected physical contact (skin to skin). This includes exposure within 1 metre for 1 minute or longer.

*Extended close contact (between 1 and 2 metres for more than 15 minutes) with the positive case.

The headteacher also spoke directly to the parents of each identified student to make sure they self-isolate at home for 14 days.

Bedford Academy confirmed these students have been set work remotely and will return to school on Thursday, September 24.

All areas of the school used by the students who tested positive have been deep cleaned.

The statement added: "Throughout the response we have been deeply impressed by the maturity demonstrated by our students and by the overwhelming support we have received from the families within our community.

"We are confident that the measures we have put in place in recent months to control the spread of infection are effective but will continue to review and adapt our procedures in line with new government guidance.

"We will remain vigilant and liaise closely with Public Health England and Bedford Borough Council to ensure the safety of our students, staff and local community remains our first priority."