iStockScotland has recorded 6215 new cases of coronavirus and 11 deaths in the last 24 hours – as infection levels reach a record high in the UK.
Statistics published by the Scottish Government on Thursday show that as of Wednesday, 540 people were in hospital in Scotland with recently confirmed Covid-19.
There was a total of 38 people in intensive care with the virus.
It comes as the Office for National Statistics (ONS) announced that an estimated 1.4 million people in the UK had the virus in the week ending December 16.
New protective measures have been introduced in Scotland to combat the spread of the Omicron variant, with deputy first minister John Swinney on Thursday announcing that nightclubs will close for three weeks from December 27.
People across Scotland have also been urged to minimise contact with other households, whilst physical distancing and table service will be in place in hospitality venues.
Football stadiums will also be effectively without fans – although Scottish football’s winter break has been brought forward.
In England meanwhile, UK health secretary Sajid Javid told broadcasters that the Government is not planning to make any more announcements on restrictions in England this week.
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