Number of coronavirus cases in Borders hits double figures

The latest update issued by the Scottish Government reveals that, as of today, March 21, 10 Borderers have tested positive for the disease, also known as Covid-19, up from nine yesterday.

They are among 373 Scots to have tested positive for the illness, up from 322 yesterday, and 3,983 people across the UK.

The death toll claimed by Covid-19 in Scotland has risen to seven, and the number of fatalities attributable to the virus UK-wide now stands at 177.

Some 8,259 tests for the illness have now been carried out in Scotland, with 7,886 coming back negative.

It is now 10 days since the first two cases of the illness were confirmed in the region, with that figure going up to three last Friday, five last Saturday, seven the day after, eight on Thursday and nine yesterday.

Schools were shut across the Borders and nationwide yesterday in a bid to keep the spread of the pandemic under control, and pubs, restaurants and leisure centres followed suit last night.

Announcing the closure of pubs and other social venues yesrerday, Scottis first minister Nicola Sturgeon said: “Covid-19 is the biggest challenge of our lifetimes.

“All of us must act now to slow the spread of the virus.

“I can confirm that in light of advice from our scientists and chief medical officer that there must be strict compliance for that to be effective.

“I am now asking restaurants, cafes, pubs gyms and cinemas to close.

“I know how difficult this is but, in short, it will save lives.

“We are asking you to take unprecedented steps, so the level of support we provide to you must be unprecedented in return.

“To older people, we are asking you to stay away from your grandkids, from the people you love. That is hard, but it isfor your protection so you can stay around to see them grow up.”

She added: “Please do not panic-buy. There is plenty to go round if we all act responsibly.

“We are entering stormy waters, and I can’t tell you yet when we will reach dry land.”

Scottish chief medical officer Catherine Calderwood added: “Covid-19 is the biggest challenge of our lifetimes, and with the number of cases set to rise sharply, we must do all we can to slow it down and save lives.

“As well as continuing to wash hands more regularly and self-isolating if you or anyone in your house has any symptoms, we must also limit the number of people we come into contact with.

“That is why, in light of updated advice, we are now asking restaurants, cafes, pubs, gyms and cinemas to close.

“I know how difficult this is, but it is vital in reducing the spread of the virus.

“Most people have been following advice and guidance, and we thank them for that, but these measures are being introduced to ensure that everyone follows the guidance, which will, ultimately, save lives.”