Coronavirus: Staff member self-isolating after potential Covid-19 exposure
18:35, 09 March 2020
updated: 19:03, 09 March 2020
A staff member at a Kent college has self-isolated as a precaution against coronavirus.
The employee had attended a group event and has now been told another attendee has tested positive for Covid-19.
The employee of Astor College in Dover is shutting him or herself away until next Monday and the school will be kept up to date.
The activity took place on the weekend of February 29 and March 1.
Last Wednesday the other member of the group became ill and over the weekend was confirmed as having COVID-19.
The secondary school broke the news to parents in a letter today.
Principal Lee Kane wrote: "We have become aware today that a member of staff at Astor was partaking in a group activity last weekend and on Wednesday one of the members of this group become unwell and has subsequently over this weekend been confirmed as having Covid-19.
"The member of staff will self-isolate for the next seven days as advised by Public Health England.
"We will be updated daily as to whether any signs or symptoms from the member of staff or others who were involved in the activity become evident."
Mr Kane said the school has been in contact with Public Health England, the NHS 111 team and local authorities who have said the school does not have to take any further action.
He said school staff are already conducting hourly checks on the premises' toilets to make sure there is enough soap, while hand gel has been installed over the weekend.
Mr Kane's letter also reminded parents to stress to their children the vital nature of personal hygiene during the outbreak.
It is not yet known what sort of activity the school worker was taking part in and where.
A pupil at an Ashford school was earlier diagnosed, while a GP in Chatham has shut as a precaution.
