PUBS AND REST
First Minister says everyone must act now to slow spread
THE First Minister Nicola Sturgeon has asked all restaurants, cafes, pubs and cinemas in Scotland to close, in the latest bid to tackle the coronavirus pandemic.
Speaking in a televised address from Bute House in Edinburgh, she warned the number of Covid-19 cases is “set to rise sharply”.
Ms Sturgeon said everyone must act now to slow the spread of the virus, adding that we must also reduce the number of people we meet and come into contact with.
The new advice was given after discussions with scientists and chief medical officer Dr Catherine Calderwood.
Ms Sturgeon said: “I know how difficult this is. But it is vital to reduce our risk of getting the virus.
“And to reduce the risk of infecting those who are most vulnerable of becoming seriously ill or dying. In short, it will save lives.
“It also gives our NHS the best chance of coping. We’ve put the NHS on an emergency footing. We’re taking steps to increase the capacity of our hospitals and intensive care wards.
“But those who work in our health and social care services will be tested like never before.
“Most of us have friends and family working in the NHS - my own sister and sister-in-law are among them. The debt of gratitude we owe all of them is enormous.
“The Scottish Government will do all we can to support you.
“As government, we are asking you to take unprecedented steps. So the level of support we provide to you must be unprecedented in return.”
It comes after the number of cases of coronavirus in Greater Glasgow rose by almost a third overnight to nearly 100 cases.
There are now 91 people confirmed to have the deadly virus here – an increase of 20 from the figure just 24 hours earlier.
The worrying increase was revealed during the Scottish Government’s 2pm update regarding COVID-19 yesterday.
Earlier, Ms Sturgeon confirmed the number of people across the country with the virus had jumped by 56 from 266 to 322.
The number of people who had died with the virus has remained unchanged at six.
The 2pm update also revealed that 7550 people have now been tested for the virus in Scotland.
That’s an increase of 778 in the last day.
Of those, 7228 tested negative with the rest – 322 – testing positive.
During her address she spoke specifically to both ends of the population in a bid to convey how to continue life as the country is “entering stormy waters”.
She said: “To older people – we are asking you to stay away from your grandkids, from the people you love.
“That’s hard. But it is for your protection, so you can stay around to see them grow up.
“To children – I know this is a strange time. You’re away from school, and won’t be able to spend as much time with friends.
“The adults around you are probably feeling a bit anxious too. So help them. Follow their advice. Study and do your homework. But don’t forget to have fun. And wash your hands.
“Modern technology is sometimes a curse, it can now be a lifeline.
“Phone or Skype loved ones. Text neighbours or drop a note through their door to see if they need help. Maybe even write a letter to your grandparents.”