HEREFORDSHIRE'S health chief has said there is no link between two coronavirus cases at one secondary school in the county.

Director of public health Karen Wright said that while it was confirmed yesterday (Wednesday) a Year 9 student at Whitecross Hereford High School had tested positive for Covid-19, this was not linked to the case reported two weeks ago.

On September 16, Herefordshire Council said a Year 7 pupil had received a positive test result, with 24 other students told to self-isolate as they were deemed to be close contacts.

Now a group of 30 students have been told to do the same. Health officials do not believe there is a link between the two cases at the school in Three Elms Road.

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Karen Wright, director of public health for Herefordshire, said: "I can confirm that a year 9 pupil at Whitecross High School, Hereford has tested positive for Covid-19.

"There has been no link identified with this latest case and the previous case relating to a year 7 pupil at the school.

"We would like to reassure parents and carers that we are working closely with the school and swift action has been taken to identify close contacts.

"There are 30 pupils identified as close contacts and they have been sent home to self-isolate. All other pupils should continue to attend school as planned.

Karen Wright added that while she understands parents will be concerned, this will not be the last case at a school in Herefordshire.

"We have worked with all our schools who have put robust measures in place to minimise the risk of coronavirus spreading," she added.

"We understand parents will be concerned but we can expect to see more cases in schools and the process of testing and contact tracing is part of the 'new normal'.

"Parents are reminded not to send your child to school if they are unwell and have any of the identified Covid-19 symptoms or they live in a household with someone who has symptoms or has tested positive in the past 14 days.

"To protect yourself and others, please continue to wash your hands regularly, keep your distance and use face coverings in public spaces, shops and on public transport.

"Anyone who has a fever, persistent dry cough, or loss or change in their sense of taste or smell should call 119 or go online to arrange a test."