First year students in a Kerry secondary school have today (Thursday) been sent home after a confirmed case of COVID-19 became known.

The school, who followed all HSE guidelines, immediately alerted parents to collect their children once they became aware of the case.

A national school in the affected area also sent home fourth class pupils as a precaution shortly afterwards.

It’s understood there may be a family connection linking both schools to the outbreak.

It’s believed that the affected children had not been in either school today and informed both schools once the results became known.

All who were in close contact this week are making arrangements to be tested for the Coronavirus via their doctor and will be sent to the HSE testing centre at Ballymullen Barracks in Tralee.