Probe into Covid deaths welcomed

and Kinross and 162 in Fife. In a two-week period last month, 10 residents and a nurse at Pitkerro Care Centre all died after contracting the virus, while 12 people including a nurse have died at Lochleven Care Home in Broughty Ferry.

NHS Tayside also said last week it was providing 81-bed South Grange Nursing Home in Monifeith with “direct clinical support” after it was hit by at least 16 deaths.

Chris Law, MP for Dundee West, said increased testing was vital if the virus was to be curbed and added: “I have been in contact with care homes in my constituency throughout the outbreak and know of the incredible work staff are doing to help keep their residents safe and healthy.

“It is important that testing continues to be stepped up in the coming days and weeks, giving us more information and more security, particularly for our loved ones who are at greater risk from the virus.

“I would encourage everyone to follow the advice set out by the NHS and the Scottish Government, and together we will come out of this sooner and safer.”

Meanwhile a spokeswoman for Balhousie Care Group, which has so far refused to reveal if there has been any Covid-related deaths at any of its 22 homes across Tayside and Fife, said: “We are following closely the guidance issued by Health Protection Scotland, NHS Scotland and the Scottish Government surrounding the care of our residents, whose health and safety is our utmost priority.

“As well as following a robust infection control policy, our staff are working extremely hard to ensure that life continues as close to normal in these very trying and stressful circumstances.”

Shona Robison