Covid South Ayrshire: Seven primary schools hit as surge in cases continues

Hundreds of South Ayrshire primary school pupils have been placed into periods of Covid self-isolation.

It comes as a string of primaries confirmed positive cases linked to their classrooms.

Health chiefs have said contact tracing is currently underway at seven primaries.

Heathfield, Glenburn, Annbank, Coylton, Struthers, Forehill and Symington primaries are all affected.

NHS teams are now bidding to stop the spread of the virus, amid fears the so-called Indian variant is driving a spike in numbers.

We told earlier today how the region had posted Scotland's second highest infection rate.

According to Public Health Scotland's rolling seven-day infection data, South Ayrshire has an infection rate of 145.6 per 100,000 population.

Only East Renfrewshire at 169.6 was in a worse position as of yesterday.

Ayr's Heathfield Primary is among those affected (Ayrshire Post)

Lynne McNiven, director of public health at NHS Ayrshire & Arran, told Ayrshire Live: "We appreciate this is a very worrying time.

"However, we would like to assure people that every measure is being taken to protect children and staff."

She added that the schools would continue to be "supported through regular conversations between education leads within South Ayrshire Council and the NHS Ayrshire & Arran’s health protection team".

"Rapid COVID-19 testing is now available for people without symptoms in Ayrshire," added Ms McNiven.

"Please visit https://www.nhsaaa.net/coronavirus-covid-19/testing/ for information on testing sites available near you.

"The local vaccination programme continues to invite Ayrshire residents forward for their COVID-19 vaccine.

Glenburn Primary is another of the schools affected (Ayrshire Post)

"The vaccine offers the best level of protection against the virus and we encourage everyone to take the opportunity when it’s their turn.

"At the moment the 30 to 39-year-old age group are being welcomed to appointments at locations around Ayrshire.

"If you are aged 40 or over and have not received your vaccine appointment for your first dose please call 0800 030 8013 available 8am-8pm, seven days a week."

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