Third case of Covid-19 confirmed at Highland secondary
SOME parents say they are fearful to send their children to school now that a third case of Covid–19 has been confirmed in a major Highland secondary.
A letter was sent to parents of pupils at Culloden Academy where it was revealed a third pupil, in S6, had contracted the coronavirus.
This is the third confirmed case in the school in the last two weeks.
In Ross-shire, sporadic cases have been logged at Dingwall Academy, Alness Academy and Tain Royal Academy in recent weeks.
Culloden Academy remains open but one parent said she was fearful to send her children to the school in case they caught the virus and brought it home.
In a letter to parents, from Dr Tim Allison, director of public health and health policy at NHS Highland, said he was aware of the concerns parents might have.
He said: "Although these cases do not appear to be linked, this indicates that Covid–19 infection is circulating in the local community."
He continued: "The affected pupil was last at school on Monday November 23. Contact tracing is ongoing. Pupils who have been identified as close contacts during the school day will be contacted directly and should self-isolate for 14 days.
"All other pupils in S1-S6 can continued to attend school as normal if they remain well."
He reminded parents of the current guidance from the Scottish Government, he said: "Although Highland is currently in Tier One, it is important that government guidance is followed in relation to physical distancing and socialising; no in-home socialising – this will be kept under review, maximum six people from two households in indoor public places and eight people from three households outdoors."
A Highland Council spokeswoman said: " A letter has been sent to parents and carers of pupils at Culloden Academy following a further confirmed case of Covid-19 in a pupil in the school.
"Although this is the third confirmed case in the school in the last two weeks, the health protection team are advising that the cases do not appear to be directly linked.
"Pupils who have been identified as close contacts during the school day will be contacted directly and advised to self-isolate at home for 14 days.
"All other pupils can continue to attend school as normal if they remain well."
One case was previously notified at Alness Academy with 30 pupils asked to self-isolate.
Twenty pupils at Tain Royal Academy were asked to isolate after an earlier case there.
Story to share? Email hector.mackenzie@hnmedia.co.uk
Related: Highlands remains in Tier 1 of Covid-19 restrictions First Minister confirms
Latest Covid-19 statistics for Highland
