CONTACT tracing is underway at two primary schools and a high school in Forth Valley after individuals tested positive for coronavirus.

NHS Forth Valley’s Test and Protect team is working at St Mungo's High School in Falkirk, St Margaret’s Primary School in Polmont and Stenhousemuir Primary School.

Since the start of September, contact tracing has been carried out at 11 schools or nurseries in the Forth Valley area, following individuals testing positive for Covid-19.

Thanks to “robust control measures” already in place, all the premises affected so far have been able to remain open while the work is carried out.

The health board has also emphasised on each occasion that pupils and staff remain protected.

Following the latest development, NHS Forth Valley said: “Initial information suggests the virus was contracted outside of the schools and there is no evidence at this stage of any transmission within these 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.

“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 the three schools remain open.”

Dr Graham Foster, NHS Forth Valley’s Director of Public Health, said: “We are seeing more cases of Covid-19 in local communities across Forth Valley and it’s therefore really important that everyone follows the national guidance to protect themselves and others.

“Please follow the FACTs guidance: wear a face covering when advised, avoid crowded places, wash your hands and any hard surfaces regularly, stay two metres apart and self-isolate and book a test if you develop any of the symptoms of Covid-19.”