NSW Education Minister Sarah Mitchell has flagged the possibility of localised school closures if coronavirus takes hold in certain parts of Sydney, but said the measure was not yet necessary.

The education sector is emphasising good hygiene and investigating online learning options as the virus spreads, with some private schools suggesting students avoid travel over the upcoming school holidays.

Early childcare centres are also advised to halt visits to aged care facilities after about 17 children visited a Macquarie Park nursing home where residents were diagnosed with COVID-19.