A CLASS at a Helensburgh primary school is self isolating after a pupil and teacher tested positive for Covid-19.

One member of staff at St Joseph's Primary has been confirmed as having tested positive for the virus, while a P3 pupil has also tested positive, according to letters published on the school's website.

The P3 class, teacher and support assistant have been sent home to self-isolate, as of Monday, October 26, with the school's head teacher stating that P4-7 remain open.

In a letter to parents last Thursday, October 22, NHS Highland's consultant in public health medicine, Dr Ken Oates, said children should continue to attend school as long as they are showing no symptoms.

The letter states: "The NHS Highland Health Protection Team (HPT) have been advised that there has been a confirmed case of Covid-19 in one of the staff at the school.

"We know that you may find this concerning but we are continuing to monitor the situation and are working closely with the head teacher and Education Service colleagues in Argyll and Bute Council. This letter is to inform you of the current situation and provide advice on how to support your child.

"The affected staff member was last at school on Wednesday, October 21. Contact tracing is now underway. Those who have been in direct close contact with the confirmed case are being contacted and they will be asked to stay at home and self-isolate for 14 days.

"The school re-opened for this term with appropriate control measures, including enhanced cleaning in place, in accordance with Scottish Government guidance, and these remain in place.

"This is an evolving situation. Meantime the school remains open and pupils should continue to attend if they remain well. If the situation changes significantly then we will update you and provide further advice as necessary."

A further letter, from head teacher Michelle Collins, was published on the school's website on Monday.

It said: "Further to the letter you received on Thursday from NHS Highland Health Protection Team (HPT), I am writing to update you on the current situation at St Joseph’s.

"The HPT has advised that there has been a confirmed case of Covid-19 in a P3 pupil at the school.

"The P3 class, teacher and support assistant have been sent home to self-isolate and a letter has been sent to P3 parents in connection with this.

"The affected pupil was last at school on Friday, October 23.

"We know that this is an anxious time for the whole school community but want to reassure you that we are following guidance from HPT and carrying out appropriate cleaning within the school which has included use of electrostatic machinery within the classrooms.

"Primary 4 to 7 classes remain open. Again, this is in line with HPT advice.

"As long as your child is well, and as long as other members of the household have no symptoms and are well, then everyone can all go about their normal business, go to work and school etc. Anyone who is well and has no symptoms does not need to be tested."

Ms Collins added that staff will continue to monitor the situation at the school and keep parents informed of any changes.