As the number of positive cases of Covid 19 continues to rise in Scotland so does the number of hospitalisations and sadly deaths.

The cumulative total for Orkney of positive cases is now up to 26 and yesterday (15th October) the Western Isles recorded its first death.

For 16th October the published figures are as follows:

• 1,196 new cases of COVID-19 reported; this is 16.9% of newly tested individuals
• 9 new reported death(s) of people who have tested positive
• 58 people were in intensive care yesterday with recently confirmed COVID-19
• 629 people were in hospital yesterday with recently confirmed COVID-19
• 21,057 new tests for COVID-19 that reported results

The increase in Covid is mirrored across all parts of the UK and during the First Minister, Nicola Sturgeon’s briefing today, she again highlighted the importance of individual action to limit and indeed stop the spread.

Scotland’s restrictions will remain in place and the wearing of face coverings is mandatory from today (Friday 16th of October) in staff canteens.

From Monday 19th of October the wearing of face coverings in other indoor communal workplaces, such as corridors and social spaces will also be mandatory.