Scotland has reported a total of 572 new coronavirus cases in the last 24 hours.
According to the latest figures published by the Scottish Government, the new cases represent four per cent of those tested for the virus on Friday (December 18).
Today's numbers were published as Nicola Sturgeon announced that "preventative action" may be needed to stop the spread of the new Covid strain.
Although there are far fewer cases of the new variant in Scotland than the rest of the UK, the First Minister warned that it can spread faster than other strains of the virus.
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Hospital figures also showed 1,033 patients are currently being treated for Covid-19 across the country, as well as 53 people in intensive care units.
Sadly, 41 deaths were also registered in the last 24 hours.
You can find all of the latest coronavirus news from today on our LIVE blog here.
