All the students who have recently returned from the Grammar School ski trip have been told to self-isolate to stop the coronavirus spreading.

All of the children who were on the Grammar School ski trip to Piedmont during February half term were sent home.

It's because the trip was to an area of Northern Italy near to the locations where that have been confirmed cases of COVID-19.

Public Health England issued guidance on Tuesday 25 February, saying that anyone who has been to the area and has symptoms like a cough, fever or shortness of breath should self-isolate at home and avoid contact with other people.

Public Health Services are aware that at least one returning student is currently showing the relevant symptoms and will be tested for coronavirus. Officials are currently asking that all children who travelled on the trip should self-isolate at home until we have the results for the students we are testing.

Dr Brink, Director of Public Health, says: "The relevant symptoms for a coronavirus (cough, fever, shortness of breath) are common to many winter illnesses which are frequently seen at this time of year. The risk to the children and staff attending this ski trip is currently considered to be low and our actions at this stage are precautionary."

All children who have been sent home today will be contacted by Public Health Services for further advice.

Ed Ashton, Director of Operations for Education, says: "We have been working closely with colleagues from Public Health, who in turn have been in regularly contact with the Grammar School and Sixth Form Centre Headteacher. Public Health are the experts and lead agency and therefore it is essential to follow the advice they have provided. We fully support the precautionary action they have asked the school to take."

You can read the latest advice from Public Health at gov.gg/coronavirus.