Almost 260 people have been diagnosed with COVID-19 at Kilmarnock prison after a huge outbreak.
It is understood that 27 prison staff and about 230 inmates have tested positive for the virus after the infection spread rapidly through the jail.
A high number of those impacted have no symptoms.
The number of cases could be roughly equivalent to around half of the prison population at the Bowhouse site, it is estimated.
A senior source told the Local Democracy Reporting Service earlier today they were under the impression that more than 270 people had tested positive for the disease.
Last week it was reported 38 people had the virus in the jail but since then the number of cases has rocketed.
East Ayrshire currently has the highest seven-day infection rate in Scotland at 310.6 cases per 100,000.
However, that high figure is thought to be due to the jail outbreak.
East Ayrshire Council leader Douglas Reid said: “It is a cause of concern. The outbreak at the prison has elevated East Ayrshire to the highest affected local authority in Scotland.
“We are thinking of the safety of the community and hope the outbreak is contained and dealt with within the prison.”
The SNP councillor added: “I hope this doesn’t impact significantly on the wider community.”
Mass testing has taken place at the privately-run prison – which is operated by Serco and sits just outside Hurlford – in a bid to help contain the virus.
And prisoners have been self-isolating.
A Scottish Prison Service spokesperson said: "The safety and wellbeing of those living and working in our prisons is a priority for the Scottish Prison Service. We have robust pandemic plans in place as we manage and support those in our care during these challenging times.
"Plans include issuing PPE and guidance for use, as well as self isolation as a precaution and testing is also available."
NHS Ayrshire & Arran has been contacted for comment on the recent rise in cases.
Last week, the health board confirmed it has been working with HMP Kilmarnock.
