As of 2pm yesterday, 13,305 people had tested positive for coronavirus in Scotland and, sadly, 1,847 have died.
These figures reflect the severity of the situation and show the spread of coronavirus. That is why our clear public health advice remains unchanged – you must stay at home.
Based on the scientific evidence, we think the R number may still be a bit higher in Scotland than other parts of the UK. That’s why sticking with the lockdown measures is so important. Maintaining physical distancing and staying at home is key to driving down infection rates and driving down the R number.
Except for essential purposes such as exercise, or buying food or medicines – you should not be going out. If you do, stay more than two metres away from other people and do not meet up with people from other households.
You should consider wearing a face covering in situations where physical distancing is difficult, such as when shopping or travelling on public transport. And you should isolate completely if you or someone else in your household has symptoms.
Any decision to ease restrictions in Scotland will be based entirely on our assessment of the evidence we have.
As the First Minister made clear on Friday, that may result in the four UK nations easing restrictions at different times.
This week I took part in a very moving Q&A with patients and families who are living with cancer. It brought home to me how important it is that everybody follows the rules.
None of us want these restrictions to be in place for any longer than they need to be but we cannot become complacent.
Professor Jason Leitch is Scotland’s National Clinical Director
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