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Coronavirus: Medway Norse starts deep-clean work at St John Fisher school, Chatham

09:43, 09 March 2020

updated: 16:49, 09 March 2020

Deep-clean work has begun at a school which has a pupil confirmed to have coronavirus.

Workers from contractors Medway Norse have moved into St John Fisher Catholic Comprehensive School.

Cleaners at the school in Medway

Several vehicles are on site this morning ahead of the Chatham school's planned re-opening on Wednesday. A Year 8 pupil, related to other patients in Kent, was confirmed to have the virus on Friday night.

Head teacher Dympna Lennon sent out a message to some parents.

The youngster is also linked to Medway's second case, of which no further details are known.

The school announced on its website on Saturday afternoon that it would be closed today and tomorrow.

Medway Norse workers are on site at St John Fisher School, Chatham, deep cleaning after a pupil was diagnosed with cornonavirus
Medway Norse workers are on site at St John Fisher School, Chatham, deep cleaning after a pupil was diagnosed with cornonavirus

The contractors will be cleaning all surfaces ahead of children returning to class on Wednesday.

It is not known how long the affected pupil was present for before testing positive.

Speaking on Saturday afternoon, Medway Council's director of public health moved to reassure the public.

James Williams said: "Close contacts will be given health advice about symptoms and emergency contact details to use if they become unwell in the 14 days after contact with the confirmed case.

"This tried and tested method will ensure we are able to minimise any risk to them and the wider public.”

Medway Norse workers are on site at St John Fisher School, Chatham, deep cleaning after a pupil was diagnosed with cornonavirus
Medway Norse workers are on site at St John Fisher School, Chatham, deep cleaning after a pupil was diagnosed with cornonavirus

Meanwhile, Medway Labour leader Cllr Vince Maple has released a statement.

He said: "As ward councillors, myself and my colleagues have reached out to St John Fisher School to ensure they are getting the support they need at this difficult time.

"It’s reassuring the school is doing everything within their powers to keep pupils and their families safe.

‘Medway Council is following Public Health England advice, working with health colleagues to support the school, and has sent advice to council staff aimed at stopping the spread of the virus and ensuring the people of Medway are protected."

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