Scotland hits record 7,000 cases of Covid-19

Scotland has recorded another record number of new coronavirus cases, with 7,113 people testing positive for the first time.

It is the third time in a week the record for new infections has been broken, as the Scottish Government warned the situation is “fragile” and said further restrictions could not be ruled out.

New cases have more than doubled in a week, although the figure released yesterday includes some tests taken more than 48 hours ago due to backlog and delays in the testing system.

The number of patients in hospital with recently confirmed coronavirus infections has also risen for the ninth consecutive day, reaching 507, with 52 in intensive care.

A further 17,655 vaccinations were carried out in the 24-hour period.

Of those, 3,233 were first doses and 14,422 were second doses, taking the totals to 4,101,311 and 3,655,287 respectively.

A Scottish Government spokesman said: “The case numbers continue to be a cause for concern and our current situation remains fragile.

“As the first minister said in her statement last week, it is vitally important that everyone plays their part in limiting the spread of the virus by observing the key public health measures.

“Those who are eligible, and have not yet done so, should get vaccinated as this remains the single most important thing we can do to keep each other safe.

“And basic steps like wearing face coverings on public transport, keeping a safe distance from others and opening a window if you have someone in your house for ventilation can also play a key role in breaking off chains of transmission.

“No one wants to see a return of formal restrictions, but we cannot rule anything out as cases continue to surge.”

Meanwhile, Health

Secretary Humza Yousaf is urging under-40s to get their second Covid vaccination and not “leave the job half done” amid rising cases.

The Scottish Government said the number of cases is rising and that about twothirds of new ones are in under-40s.

Over the past month, 30% of Covid-19 related hospital admissions were in those aged under 40, and the majority of hospital admissions among unvaccinated people were in the under-40s age group (58%).

Mr Yousaf said the virus is “still a significant threat” and urged people in that age group who have still to receive their second dose to book an appointment or go to a drop-in clinic.

He said: “Our message to you is clear. It’s not too late to get your vaccine and it remains vital that you get both doses in order to give maximum protection against this virus. Please don’t leave the job half done.”

URGENT: Humza Yousaf has encouraged under-40s to become fully vaccinated for Covid-19.