Hundreds of university students across Scotland self-isolating in halls after coronavirus outbreaks

Hundreds of students across Dundee, Aberdeen and Glasgow have had to self-isolate in their halls of residences after cases of coronavirus.

All 500 residents at Parker House, private student accommodation in Dundee, have been told to quarantine until further contact tracing has been completed.

It follows a student at Abertay University testing positive for Covid-19, and a “small number” of other suspected cases linked to the halls of residence.

Dr Daniel Chandler, associate director of public health, said: “We know from outbreaks in other university settings across Scotland that the virus can spread very quickly in student accommodation.

“Therefore, as a precautionary measure, we are contacting all residents of Parker House and advising them to self-isolate immediately.

“Further investigation and contact tracing are continuing and we will review this advice in the coming days. It is really important that any residents who develop symptoms book a test as soon as possible.”

Professor Nigel Seaton, principal of Abertay University, said: “The university already has enhanced cleaning and safety measures in place on campus, in line with national guidance, and the campus will remain open.

“We have contacted students and staff to remind them of their personal responsibilities in relation to Covid safety and to inform them of changes in Scottish Government guidance.”

Meanwhile, a number of Aberdeen University students have tested positive for coronavirus.

In an email to undergraduates, principal and vice-chancellor Professor George Boyne confirmed that there were positive cases, including some staying at Wavell House at Hillhead Student Village.

Those identified as close contacts of the confirmed cases are being asked to self-isolate for 14 days.

All residents of Wavell House have been asked to self-isolate for a fortnight unless advised otherwise.

A University of Aberdeen spokesperson said: “We can confirm that a number of students have tested positive for Covid-19. We are working closely with NHS Grampian’s Health Protection Team and will be offering help and support to those required to self-isolate as a result.

“Those who have been identified as close contacts of the confirmed cases will be contacted by Test and Protect tonight and tomorrow and will be required to self-isolate for 14 days.

“Due to the anticipated large number of students at our Wavell House halls of residence, that potentially have had close contact with all the cases, and the rapidly changing nature of this situation, the Health Protection Team has advised that all residents in Wavell House are required to self-isolate with immediate effect for 14 days unless advised otherwise.”

All of those affected are receiving support from the university’s accommodation team to ensure they have access to food and other supplies, as well as the resources to study online.

Affected areas of Wavell house are also being deep cleaned.

The spokesperson added: “We appreciate this will be an anxious time for many but the safety of our staff, student and wider community are paramount.

“At the same time, it is vital that we all work together to comply with the guidelines to help keep our community safe and mitigate the risk of further spread.”

The University of Glasgow said “a number” of students had tested positive for Covid-19 and were receiving support.

A statement posted on social media said: “We are dealing with a number of Covid-19 cases in student residences.

“The students affected are self-isolating and are being supported by our University of Glasgow Accommodation Services team to ensure they have access to food and other supplies.

“Advice on medical issues, including mental health and wellbeing, is also being made available.”