NHS Lothian have shamed those said to be stealing hand gel from hospital wards in the area.
The health board took to social media today (16 March) to emphasise the importance of keeping the hand sanitisers where they belong in wards during the coronavirus outbreak.
In a post, NHS Lothian reminded the public that the gels are there to protect those in the hospital, saying:
"We have had reports of hand sanitiser gel being removed from wards.
"Hand gel in wards are there to protect our patients, staff and visitors and are not to be removed for any reason.
"We would like to remind people that the most effective way of combating coronavirus is through regular and thorough hand washing."
Other commenters shared their shock at the thieves actions, with one commenting "absolutely disgusting behaviour", and another stating:
"Anyone else who works for the NHS had requests off people to go 'steal' them some? I have. they got told where to go! Utterly ridiculous".
The NHS has also issued official advice about how to best wash your hands, prevent the spread of the virus and what to do if you think you are showing signs of any symptoms.
As of 16th March, in Edinburgh and the Lothians there are 29 confirmed cases of the virus, with 171 in Scotland.
To stay up to date with all the latest news about coronavirus in the Lothians, you can follow our live-blog here.
Edinburgh Live have reached out to NHS Lothian for comment.
