Nicola Sturgeon: 'Life should not feel normal..do the right thing now'

The First Minister told a media briefing in Edinburgh that the number of confirmed cases is up to 416, an increase of 43.

Ms Sturgeon reiterated that it was vital that people and firms around the country were following the advice given by the government to stop the spread of the virus.

She said: "life should not feel normal.”

Scotland's First Minister Nicola Sturgeon holds a briefing on the coronavirus COVID-19 outbreak. (Getty Images) | JPIMedia

Ms Sturgeon stated that, while the "vast majority" of bars, restaurants and cafes have complied with instructions from the Scottish Government to close, she had seen suggestions on social media that a "small minority might not be complying".

She insisted: "If that's true, make no mistake ... lives are at risk as a result. Please do the right thing now."Ms Sturgeon added: “This is about saving lives. Our priority must be to protect people, to protect our NHS and to protect Scotland.”

The First Minister also gave updates on the advice given to students who are sitting exams this year and the threat of spreading the virus to remote communities from people travelling.

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