Stricter lockdown measures for Scotland will be top the agenda when Nicola Sturgeon meets her cabinet today.
The First Minister will present the latest information and advice on controlling the fast growing number of confirmed new coronavirus cases.
She cautioned yesterday that pubs and restaurants - already under a 10pm curfew - are likely to be hit again, warning "we may have to go further for a period".
Announcing a further 697 new cases in 24 hours at her daily briefing yesterday Ms Sturgeon warned: "Given the numbers we are seeing it is possible that we will have to do more.
"There may well be a need for some further restrictions in the near future."
The cabinet is expected to consider a range of measures ahead of the October school holiday - due to get underway in Glasgow this Friday.
This comes amid growing speculation that a two-week 'circuit-breaker' will be imposed across Scotland.
Ms Sturgeon wouldn't be drawn on exactly what this could entail yesterday, but there's a rising tide of speculation it could also include a nationwide travel ban.
However, she was at pains to point out that keeping schools open remains a priority and she categorically ruled out part-time lessons.
And she promised: "I want to give an assurance that we will endeavour to give you the public, and of course the Scottish Parliament as much notice as possible as well as a clear explanation of our reasons and rationale, and I want to promise you that we do not impose restrictions lightly.
"If we decide that extra restrictions are necessary it will be because we deem it necessary and vital to get the virus back under control and avoid unnecessary loss of life."
