With the first cases of the Novel Coronavirus being confirmed in the UK, Monmouth schools are taking precautions ready for next week’s half-term.

Cases of the respiratory virus, first detected in the Chinese city of Wuhan under three weeks ago, has now spread across the world with the number of deaths from the outbreak in China standing at 425, with more than 20,000 cases confirmed globally.Mr James Murphy-O’Connor, Principal at Haberdashers’ Monmouth Schools, said that arrangements have been made to accommodate pupils most at risk for the week’s duration of the half term holiday."We are supporting all our overseas children and parents at this difficult time, when there is still so much uncertainty about possible international travel restrictions to contain the spread of the virus" he added. Only two deaths have been outside of mainland China so far: one in the Philippines and one in Hong Kong.Travelling to China has now become difficult as British Airways and Virgin Atlantic have suspended UK-China flights.Mr Murphy-O’Connor said: “As a family of schools, we have been monitoring the outbreak of the Novel Coronavirus in China very closely. “Our boarders returned to school on 6th January and none of our pupils are from Hubei province, the area most badly affected by the outbreak. “In light of the latest advice from The Foreign and Commonwealth Office, our boarders from China will stay in the UK with their guardians over half term. “For those pupils who cannot stay with their guardian, we will be opening up a boarding house with appropriate staff in place.“Our primary concern is the health and welfare of each and every member of the school and the wider local community.  We are extremely grateful to everyone for their ongoing support and offers of help.“We will continue to track government advice and will update parents, staff and guardians should the situation develop.”The Department of Health said on Monday that 326 UK tests for coronavirus have concluded, with a total of two coming back positive.Monmouth town councillors were told at a meeting on Monday night 3rd February, that they may be called upon to help should the need arise.