Further restrictions considered as local virus data released

Further restrictions could be put in place to stem the spread of coronavirus, the First Minister has warned.

Nicola Sturgeon said the significant number of new Covid-19 cases was a cause for concern.

She said the 1522 cases reported over the weekend alongside the 697 on Monday showed that the virus was on the rise again, as it is in many other countries.

Sturgeon said: “It is vital that we do everything we can to get this situation under control.”

The First Minister said she is hopeful the restriction on visiting other people’s houses will “help us stem the increase of the virus over the next period”.

However, she warned: “Given the numbers we are seeing – I have been very open about this over the past few days – it is possible that we will have to do more.

“There may well be a need for some further restrictions in the near future.”

The Scottish Government will consider the latest clinical evidence and advice later on Monday, with the cabinet due to meet on Tuesday morning to discuss the situation.

Sturgeon added: “If we do decide more restrictions are necessary – and no decision has been taken yet – I want to give an assurance that we will endeavour to give you the public, and of course the Scottish Parliament, as much notice as possible, as well as a clear explanation of our reasons and rationale.

“And I want to promise you that we do not impose restrictions lightly. If we decide that extra restrictions are necessary, it will be because we deem it necessary and vital to get the virus back under control and avoid unnecessary loss of life.”

Meanwhile Public Health Scotland has launched a dashboard which members of the public can use to discover information on coronavirus in their area.

Updated daily, it will include information on testing, admissions to hospital, deaths and cases sorted by neighbourhood areas.