New Covid-19 cases exceed 200 for first time since May

“It reminds us of the need to deploy strong counter measures. NICOLA STURGEON

Scotland has recorded 208 new coronavirus cases – the highest daily increase in positive tests for more than 17 weeks.

The last time more people tested positive for Covid-19 was May 8, when there were 225 new cases of infection.

The increase, up from Saturday’s figure of 141 people, takes the weekly total of confirmed infections to 1,079 – the most over a seven-day period since May 6.

No new deaths have been registered, according to the Scottish Government.

The 208 positive cases account for 2.3% of the 18,418 tests carried out.

Commenting on the rising numbers of confirmed cases, First Minister Nicola Sturgeon tweeted: “Today’s numbers show a continued increase, including in % positive.

“While this reflects the substantial opening up of the economy, it reminds us of the need to deploy strong counter measures.

“We have two main tools at our disposal.

“One of these tools is Test and Protect – it is working well and so far reaching well over 90% of positive cases and close contacts.

“Within (the) next few days we will launch a major enhancement – the Protect Scotland app – which will allow us to reach a wider range of contacts.

“Our other main tool – indeed our first line of defence – is ourselves. As we are all out and about more, we must take greater care on face coverings, hygiene, distance.”

As of Saturday night, there were four people with the virus in intensive care – up from two on Friday – although the total number of infected people in hospital has fallen by six to 245.

Pictures: Shutterstock/Dougie Nicolson. Top: Head teachers and school management teams are at risk of burnout due to their excessive workload over recent months, claims the EIS. Above: Downfield Primary School in Dundee, which was linked to a cluster of coronavirus cases in the city.