First two cases confirmed on Western Isles since coronavirus outbreak began

Two people on the Isle of Lewis have tested positive for coronavirus, the first cases since the crisis began.

Gordon Jamieson, chief executive of NHS Western Isles said the news is disappointing for the community, but health workers are well-prepared to deal with cases.

In statement the NHS boss stressed the importance of staying indoors to prevent further cases and assured the community the Health Board is now taking steps to identify possible routes of infection.

Mr Jamieson said: “I can confirm that today two individuals have tested positive for COVID-19 here in the Western Isles.

“While I am disappointed that we now have cases here in our community, you can be rest assured that we have been preparing for this eventuality for a number of weeks and we are ready to respond effectively.

“I cannot now overstate the importance of following the stay at home rules.

“Please obey them.

“Practice social distancing when you have to go out and only when you have to go out. We have to continue to do as much as we possibly can to prevent further spread here in our community, thank you."

First two cases confirmed on Western Isles since coronavirus outbreak began

The news comes after Scotland’s coronavirus death toll reached 60 this afternoon, according to government officials.

The latest statistics were confirmed by Nicola Sturgeon at a virtual media briefing today (Tuesday) announcing that a further 13 people have died from the COVID-19 strain.

The total number of confirmed cases in Scotland has also risen by 430 since yesterday which makes a total of 1,993 patients who have tested positive for the virus, though the First Minister added that the large jump was due to increased testing.

There are currently 135 patients in intensive care with either confirmed or suspected cases of COVID-19.