NHS Forth Valley’s Test and Protect team is carrying out COVID-19 contact tracing in the following schools:

• Larbert High School
• Stenhousemuir Primary School
• Banchory Primary School, Tullibody

Initial information suggests the virus was contracted outside of the schools and there is no evidence at this stage of any transmission within the school premises.

The individuals who have tested positive for the virus are self-isolating at home along with the rest of their household. To respect and maintain patient confidentiality, no further details will be given, but close contacts of the individuals have been identified and advised to self-isolate in line with national guidance. Robust control measures were already in place to protect the health of pupils and staff and all three schools remain open.

Dr Jennifer Champion, Public Health Consultant, NHS Forth Valley, said: “Apart from those who have been identified as close contacts, all other staff and pupils can continue to attend these schools as normal and do not require to self-isolate or book a test.

“We have seen a recent concerning rise in cases across Scotland, including in Forth Valley, and it’s therefore important that we all stick to the guidelines to stop this virus spreading any further or faster in our local communities.

“This includes physical distancing and limiting the number of people you have contact with. No more than 8 people from a maximum of 3 households should gather indoors at a time and no more than 15 people from a maximum of 5 households should gather outdoors at a time and this includes meeting up with friends and families in pubs, restaurants or other venues.”