A CHESTER high school has confirmed two of its students have tested positive for Covid.

Blacon High School headteacher Rachel Hudson reported the news on Tuesday, July 13, in a message to parents and carers on the school's website.

It means the two students, and dozens of other students who have been in contact with them, must stay home for 10 days, missing their final week of term.

Mrs Hudson has also reminded students and parents of the advice when children develop Covid symptoms, such as a new continuous cough, a high temperature and/or a loss of or change in taste or smell.

The statement reads: "We have been advised by Public Health England that there has been two confirmed case of Covid-19 within school of a student.

"We know that you may find this concerning but we are continuing to monitor the situation and are working closely with Public Health England. This letter is to inform you of the current situation and provide advice on how to support your child. Please be reassured that for most people, coronavirus (Covid-19) will be a mild illness.

"The students who have been in close contact with the individuals who have tested positive for coronavirus (Covid-19) have received a letter informing them that their child must stay at home for 10 days. This affects 57 students (12 of which are already isolating from the case last week) and no members of staff due to the social distancing measures in place.

"The school remains open and your child should continue to attend as normal if they remain well.

"If your child develops symptoms of Covid-19, they must not come to school and should remain at home for at least 10 days from the date when their symptoms appeared. Anyone with symptoms will be eligible for testing and this can be arranged via https://www.nhs.uk/ask-for-a-coronavirus-test or by calling 119."

A positive Covid case has also been confirmed at Upton Heath Primary School.

The school was informed of the positive case on Monday, and has resulted in the closure of one of the school's 'bubbles', with remote learning in place for affected pupils.

The news comes as one in every 100 people aged 15-24 in Cheshire West and Chester tested positive for Covid between July 1-7, as infection rates continue to rise, particularly among younger people.