Concern at ‘significant and sudden’ increase in student Covid cases

ST ANDREWS University has been hit by a “sudden and significant” rise in Covid cases among students.

Eleven students living in four halls of residence and private accommodation in the town tested positive for the virus, while more than 40 others are understood to be self-isolating.

In an email to all students, university principle and vicechancellor Sally Mapstone described the development as “extremely concerning”.

She warned that more positive cases could be confirmed in coming days.

“It seems very likely that this is the new UK variant strain of Covid,” she added.

Students are now being urged to stay in the town and not travel during he spring break. Even

feeling well, they have been advised there is a “very significant risk” that they could carry the virus on to family and friends.

News of the outbreak comes weeks after dozens of students breached Covid regulations by attending a party at a

St Andrews University hall of residence.

Police confirmed they were investigating the incident after up to 40 students attended the illegal gathering in one block at David Russell Apartments.

Days later, St Andrews University’s Covid helpdesk sent an email to every undergraduate they thought to be in town, encouraging them to book a test to prevent the spread of the virus.

NHS Fife public health director Dona Milne said: “Over a number of months we have seen relatively low levels of Covid-19 within the university, and this is testament to the actions of the vast majority of the student population who appear to have adhered to the public health measures in place to protect us all.

“It is clear, however, in a small number of instances over recent weeks the protocols in place have not been followed, particularly around gathering indoors, and it is very likely that the recent sudden increase in positive cases are a direct result of this.”