Nicola Sturgeon has urged Scots to regularly test in a bid to prevent further spread of coronavirus across the country.
The First Minister announced during a statement to the Scottish Parliament that all nine cases of the Omicron variant in Scotland, which originated in southern Africa, can be linked to a private event on November 20.
At present there are five cases in Lanarkshire and four in the Greater Glasgow and Clyde health board area.
Testing is being ramped up to halt further spread of the variant which is believed to be more transmissible, according to early reports from scientists.
The SNP leader revealed that testing locations will be made available in supermarkets, garden centres and Christmas market around the country.
Sturgeon told MSPs: "I can confirm today that, in the run up to the festive period, lateral flow tests will be made available by local authorities in many more locations.
"Locations will obviously vary in different parts of the country, but will include shopping centres and supermarkets, garden centres, sports grounds and Christmas markets. We are also working with transport partners to provide access to tests in transport hubs.
"So while it is already easy to get lateral flow tests, we are taking steps to make it easier still.
"Please make sure you get a supply and keep it topped up.
"It is also worth mentioning that the newer lateral flow devices are much easier to use than the older ones – they require nasal swabs only rather than nasal and throat swabs.
"So if you have previously tried lateral flow tests and given up because you found them too uncomfortable to use, please try again now. Remember also to report the result of tests online."
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