Schools closed after coronavirus cluster on island

Schools on two Scottish islands have been closed for at least three days after a coronavirus outbreak in the Outer Hebrides.

Pupils from North and South Uist will remain at home until Thursday after seven Covid-19 cases were detected.

Three positive tests were confirmed on South Uist on Friday with four new cases over the weekend.

That brings the total number of confirmed cases on the islands to 17, the lowest cumulative total in Scotland.

None of those affected required hospital care and all seven are self-isolating at home.

Extra precautions were brought in on Friday after three islanders tested positive.

The Sacred Heart care home suspended admissions, discharges and visiting after staff were being identified as close contacts to at least one of the people who tested positive.

Residents and employees at the facility in Daliburgh are also being tested.

Cothrom nursery in Ormiclate has shut until further notice with staff told to quarantine for a fortnight and Am Politician pub in Eriskay was closed over the weekend as a precaution and to allow the premises to be deep cleaned.

NHS Western Isles director of public health, Dr Maggie Watts, said: “Following the identification of these positive results, the individuals involved have been asked to self isolate for ten days from onset of symptoms.

“We are tracing all their contacts, who are also being advised to self isolate for fourteen days from the date of their last contact with the case as a precaution.

“We would highlight to those contacted through Test and Protect to self isolate that they must complete their 14 day self isolation period, even in the event that they are subsequently tested, and test negative for Covid-19.

“We would like to reassure our local communities and visitors to the island that we are taking all necessary steps to contain the virus but it is vital that everyone in the Western Isles follows the current Scottish Government restrictions and FACTS guidance to limit any spread of the virus.”