MARTINS FERRY — Two private schools in the city were closed Monday due to surging COVID-19 cases.

The virus has also impacted other area schools.

On Monday, Belmont County Deputy Health Commissioner Robert Sproul texted that St. Mary Central school is closed due to positive COVID cases, while Martins Ferry Christian School was closed for cleaning.

“I don’t have the final numbers on St. Mary’s yet. Christian had a person who was positive visit the school, and they just wanted to be safe and clean,” Sproul said. “Christian is planning on opening (Tuesday).”

There were several teachers outside Martins Ferry Christian late afternoon Monday, but they declined to comment.

St. Mary released a statement online, indicating there have been COVID-19 cases in the facility.

“The instances of COVID are rising in our community, and indeed in our school. Due to the positive cases, school will be closed for the week of Aug. 30-Sept. 3. School will resume after Labor Day on Tuesday, Sept. 7 at regular time.”

In addition, Sproul confirmed a considerable number of Barnesville Exempted Village School District students have been absent due to infection with or exposure to COVID-19. He added that the football team was out last week. Games were canceled.