As of 25 January the Chinese authorities had acknowledged 1409 cases and 42 deaths. The actual number to have contacted the virus could be far higher as the symptoms may take up to 14 days to present.

There were fears that the coronavirus might spread more widely during the long weekend and  lunar new year holidays as millions of people travel around world to celebrate.

As this is viral pneumonia, antibiotics are of no use. The antiviral drugs that we currently have will also not work and it is highly contagious virus. Recovery will depend on the strength of their immune system. At the moment, it appears that people in poor health are at greatest risk.

For the safety of the wider school community, I would like to ask the school management to urge the families who recently returned from China to keep their children at home for 2 weeks before attending school. Also encouraging students to wear the masks during school days.

Best regards
Sonya Song (Year 2 parent)