Nicola Sturgeon has said Scottish schools will close by the end of the week as the country responds to the coronavirus crisis.
Schools have remained open as the number of coronavirus cases continues to grow in Scotland, however the First Minister has announced it is 'now inevitable' schools and nurseries will close, potentially until the summer.
Sturgeon said in her press conference held at 1pm today (Wednesday): "It's now inevitable that we will now close schools and nurseries - my view is at the end of this week.
"We want to give parents prior warning so they can prepare."
The move comes as Nicola Sturgeon informed the nation of the death of a third Scottish patient as a result of coronavirus.
She said: "It is with sadness this afternoon that I have to confirm the death of one more patient", while adding her thoughts were with the families of those who have died.
As of today, there are 227 confirmed positive cases of Covid-19 across Scotland.
