Coronavirus Hits South Side; St. Margaret Student Tests Positive

CHICAGO (WASHINGTON HEIGHTS) — A student at St. Margaret of Scotland School in the Washington Heights neighborhood, just a few blocks east of Beverly, has tested positive for COVID-19, the illness caused by the new coronavirus. The school has shut down immediately and will not re-open until at least the end of spring break on March 23, according to a statement on the school's website.

The affected student also attended an all-school mass on Thursday, so the daily mass on Friday, March 13, has also been canceled. It wasn't immediately clear whether or not masses are planned for this weekend.

Beginning March 13, the school and church will undergo "extensive cleaning and disinfecting."

The Chicago Department of Public Health though said it is not necessary for anyone associated with the school to be tested for coronavirus nor is it necessary for anyone to self-quarantine unless they are experiencing respiratory symptoms.

"Please continue to pray for all those currently suffering from this illness and for all those ministering to their health and working diligently to bringing an end to the spread of the virus," school officials said.

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