Seven Covid-19 cases confirmed in Hawick

The cases are linked to three settings in Hawick; Morrisons in Mart Street, the Trinity Bar in Duke Street and the Baguette ’N’ Go food takeaway in the town’s High Street.

Additionally, a single case of the virus was also confirmed this week at Selkirk High School in Hillside Terrace.

They bring the number of confirmed cases in the Borders up to 356 since the virus began.

An employee at Morrisons is one of those to have tested positive after returning from a holiday in Turkey.

A Morrisons spokeswoman said: “One of our colleagues in our Hawick store has tested positive for coronavirus and we wish them a speedy recovery. We have taken steps in store to ensure it is safe for colleagues and customers.”

In a statement, NHS Borders said: “All close contacts with the positive case associated with Morrisons have been contacted and provided with advice.

“NHS Borders Test and Protect team are contacting any customers of the Trinity Bar who may be affected and close contacts are being advised to self-isolate and are being given appropriate advice.

“Although the risk of catching the virus at Baguette ’N’ Go was low, if you visited the outlet on Thursday 20 and Friday 21 you need to be extra vigilant.”

NHS Borders says that people who book a coronavirus test may have to travel to Galashiels for a test, although they plan to set up a mobile testing unit in Hawick this week.

Additionally, Selkirk High School is carrying out contact tracing after a single case of Covid-19 emerged.

A joint statement issued to parents from headteacher Jamie Bryson and Lesley Munro, the council’s service director for young people, engagement and inclusion, says: “We are aware of NHS Contact Tracing activity within the Selkirk High School community.

“This is in relation to a single case of Covid-19.”

The letter urges parents to be on their guard, adding that children should not attend school if they or members of their household are displaying virus symptoms.

Dr Tim Patterson, the region’s joint director of public health, said: “The incidence of Covid-19 in the Borders remains very low.

“However, as always it is vital that everyone plays their part in minimising the risk of transmission of this virus.

“This includes maintaining good hand hygiene and following the guidance on physical distancing.

“If you develop any symptoms of Covid-19 which are a new continuous cough, a fever/high temperature (37.8C or greater) and/or a loss of, or change in, sense of smell or taste you should self-isolate immediately and visit NHS Inform or phone 0800 028 2816 to book a test.

“If you are a health or social care worker you should contact your line manager who will arrange for a test.

“Locally our Test and Protect team are working hard to follow up any local cases in order to minimise the spread of the virus.

“If you are entering hospitality settings such as pubs, bars or restaurants please ensure that you provide contact details as requested so that the team can do their job if a confirmed case of Covid-19 is identified.

“Now that pupils have returned to education settings, it is inevitable that the usual spread of sickness bugs and the common cold return too; however parent and carers must remain vigilant and ensure that no child attends school if they are displaying any Covid-19 symptoms.”