You would have heard earlier today that we have been advised one of our students has tested as a positive case of COVID-19. This is something we have planned well for. We have identified our Year 7 & 8 students as most at risk of coming into contact with the positive case during the infectious period which was Monday (14th Feb) and Tuesday (15th Feb).

We have gone through a thorough contact tracing process in consultation with the Ministry of Health and Education which has identified students who are close contacts. These students and families have received an email informing them of this classification.

We would advise that your son is able to continue his day-to-day activities at school as normal, with a major emphasis on watching for any symptoms. 

What you need to do

• You and your whānau should watch for symptoms
• If any develop, get tested immediately, then, stay at home until you receive the result
• If your whānau hasn’t been vaccinated, please do so as soon as possible. You can book on-line at bookmyvaccine.nz or by calling 0800 28 29 26. It’s free.

What we’re doing

• School will stay open
• We have appropriate public health measures and cleaning procedures in place

Symptoms of COVID-19

• A new or worsening cough
• Sneezing and runny nose
• A fever
• Temporary loss of smell or altered sense of taste
• Sore throat
• Shortness of breath

Less common symptoms include diarrhoea, headache, muscle aches, nausea, vomiting, malaise, chest pain, abdominal pain, joint pain, or confusion/irritability.

For more information, go to https://covid19.govt.nz/health-and-wellbeing/about-covid-19/covid-19-symptoms/

I thank you for your co-operation at this difficult time. If you would like any further clarification, please contact Paul Burton covid@stc.school.nz