Covid test plea after cocktail bar linked to cluster

Customers who recently visited a cocktail bar in Stirling are being urged to get tested for coronavirus after it was linked to a cluster of cases.

NHS Forth Valley’s appeal is aimed at those who visited the Tingle Bar in King Street between Friday, May 21 and Sunday, May 30.

The health board said a number of students from “several educational establishments” visited the bar during this period, and at least one positive case is the variant first detected in India.

There are current more than 40 confirmed positive cases linked to the bar.

Dr Henry Prempeh, consultant in public health, said: “It is vitally important that we contact these young people and encourage them to get tested as soon as possible to help prevent further spread, particularly as at least one case of the variant first detected in India has been recorded amongst the positive cases.

“This variant is highly transmissible and we are working closely with environmental health colleagues from Stirling Council and our local Test and Protect team to stem this outbreak.

“Please continue to follow all guidance from NHS Forth Valley’s Test and Protect team and, if you are identified as a close contact, self-isolate and get a PCR test.

“Even if your test is negative you must continue to isolate for ten days as advised.”

PCR Covid-19 testing is available at the Engine Shed behind Stirling railway station, and at the University of Stirling.

It can be also be booked online or through NHS Inform on 0800 028 2816.