A SCHOOL has advised pupils showing symptoms of coronavirus to self-isolate after students returned from a ski trip in Italy. 

The country has become Europe's worst-hit by the virus, with more than 300 cases and 11 deaths.

Switzerland, Austria, Croatia, Algeria and Brazil have all reported cases after people visiting Italy returned home.

Cardinal Newman school in Hove sent the message conveying Government advice to parents as a precaution.

>> READ MORE: Second school's coronavirus warning as pupils return from Italy

It said anyone showing symptoms of the virus – including a cough, fever, or shortness of breath – should stay indoors, avoid contact with others, and call NHS 111.

The school said it had been advised "the risk to students and staff on the ski trip is low". 

But one parent questioned: "As we know coronavirus can take weeks to show symptoms, why have Cardinal Newman allowed children who have been to Italy to return to school so quickly without self isolating?"

The letter to parents and carers reads: "The government issued new guidance regarding Covid-19 this morning. It is particularly relevant for our school because our ski trip took place to Northern Italy.

"Hovever the location of the trip (San Sicario) was at least 140 miles from these Northern Italian towns that have been placed in lockdown. 

"We have been advised that the risk to students and staff on the ski trip is low. 

"This is the government guidance that we received. You do not need to follow this advice if you have no symptoms. 

"If you have returned to the UK from any of the areas listed below in the last 14 days and develop symptoms of cough or fever or shortness of breath, you should immediately stay indoors and avoid contact with other people as you would with the flu, and call NHS 111 to inform them of your recent travel to the country."

The school has been contacted for comment.

A spokeswoman for Brighton and Hove City Council said there were no plans for schools in the city to close.

She said: “There is no need for pupils and staff to stay away from school unless they meet Public Health England’s self-isolation criteria as above or are asked directly by Public Health England to self-isolate.”